Riding kit specialist retailer Sportsbikeshop has announced the opening of a new ‘bricks and mortar’ store in Norwich, Norfolk. This marks a significant milestone for the company as it expands into its 10th location in the UK. The Norwich outlet will join a nationwide network of stores in Bristol, Reading, Milton Keynes, Leeds, Harlow, Birmingham, Preston, Glasgow and Boston, Lincolnshire, where the firm’s main warehouse and headquarters are situated. The new store will open
seven days a week, providing local customers easy access to a wide range of riding gear and accessories.
been looking forward to this expansion and hope to open our doors to the public early this year. We’re aiming for
We have been looking forward to this expansion and hope to open our doors early this year
Chris Winters, Sportsbikeshop
the positive reception and performance of our other stores nationwide.”
Chris ‘Bernie’ Winters, managing director of Sportsbikeshop, is delighted about the new opening. “Our new Norwich store fills an important geographic gap in our operations. We have
February as a realistic target. The new location will be our 10th store in the UK, a goal we’ve diligently worked towards since 2016. We have high expectations for its success, especially given
In addition to providing a physical shopping experience, Sportsbikeshop aims to enhance customer satisfaction through its ‘Try on or Buy’ reservation system, which smartly links the full selection available on what is claimed to be the UK’s largest biking website. This integration allows customers to enjoy the convenience of online shopping while also benefiting from the personalised service of a local store.
Some respite for threatened bike finance providers
THE SUPREME COURT HAS GRANTED motor and motorcycle finance lenders permission to challenge an earlier ruling from the Court of Appeal, which sided with consumers who complained about “secret” commissions. That judgement last October ruled that it was illegal for lenders to pay commissions or concealed fixed fees to dealers without first obtaining their customers’ informed consent.
It followed a Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) decision to ban “discretionary” commissions paid to dealerships in car
and motorcycle finance deals from 2021 onwards, because they deliberately encouraged the recipients to put their customers on higher rates of interest. These discretionary payments had already made involved lenders liable for redress on a large proportion of previously mis-sold loans, prior to the 2021 ban.
But the more recent Court of Appeal intervention had gone far beyond that issue, extending the range of liabilities and forcing lenders to rapidly update their commission disclosures. Many were either obliged to pause lending for
vehicle purchases or to cease incentives to dealerships altogether.
Primary financial service provider victims Close Brothers and the Lloyds Banking Group Black Horse operation have already set aside £400m and £450m provisions respectively to cover potential future redress costs.
The Supreme Court appeal case is due to be heard between January and April this year. Speaking to a Financial Times reporter, the FCA “welcomed the swiftness of the Supreme Court’s decision, given the potential impact of any judgement.”
Royal Alloy switches to Lukas Distribution
Retro-styled scooter brand Royal Alloy has swapped distributors. The firm, which produces its machines in the Far East, has ended a seven-year supply deal with UK importer MotoGB and signed a new agreement with Lukas Distribution, effective from December 2024.
MotoGB issued a statement indicating that “differences in direction” were the reason behind the decision. It announced: “MotoGB has ceased its association with Royal Alloy and will no longer act as the official UK importer as of December 2024.” The statement continued, “Due to the inability to reach an agreement with Hanway Motor/Royal Alloy Global regarding the direction of business for 2025, MotoGB has unfortunately chosen to discontinue its association with both Hanway and Royal Alloy. We’ve enjoyed the journey growing Hanway and Royal Alloy in the UK. We wish them all the success in the world, and we will continue to support all our existing customers.”
At the same time, Lukas Distribution and Royal Alloy issued a joint statement, with Lukas stating it was “thrilled” to announce its appointment as Royal Alloy’s exclusive UK distributor.
Steve Oliver, Royal Alloy CEO, said, “The United Kingdom is not only a key home for the brand, but it is the window of the world, especially for a niche ‘classic’ scooter brand such as ours. From the brand’s foundation in early 2017 and the first market being the UK, MotoGB has supported the brand in many ways, gaining good momentum and a stable market for what is essentially a new brand.”
Oliver continued, “We have taken heed of a number of our flourishing global markets and analysed the core reasons for continued market growth in what is a difficult environment for all manufacturers. Understandably, the underlying success factors are that of focus and passion – our other distribution partners, who are solus Royal Alloy or those carrying only one or two other non-competing brands, are providing excellent results. The move is certainly not a last-minute decision, it has been a tough decision and well-researched.
“There were a number of applicants
The move is certainly not a last-minute decision, it has been a tough decision and well-researched
Steve Oliver, Royal Alloy CEO
and contenders for the distribution role. In fact, we had previously considered the option, similar to that of other manufacturers, of going dealer direct, but in the end we believed that we could create a new and rather exciting ‘Mods and Rockers’ concept and have decided to work with the BSA distributor for the UK, Lukas Distribution, who are based in Coventry.”
“We are delighted to partner with Royal Alloy, a brand that shares our passion for innovation, style and rider satisfaction,” said Luke Gregory, MD of Lukas Distribution. “This collaboration marks a significant milestone for Lukas Distribution as we continue to deliver premium motorcycles and outstanding
service to the market. We look forward to driving Royal Alloy’s growth and strengthening its market presence.”
The first fruits of the new partnership will appear at the London Motorcycle Show in February, where the firms will launch Royal Alloy’s new EU5+ models.
Lukas Distribution has also announced the extension of its partnerships with Fowlers of Bristol for Royal Alloy parts distribution and the DF Capital organisation’s financial muscle.
“With the support of our partners at Fowlers of Bristol and DF Capital, we are excited to drive Royal Alloy’s growth in the UK, introduce the new, more powerful, Euro 5+ models to the market, and provide dealers and riders with unmatched opportunities and experiences,” added Gregory.
Lukas Distribution is actively looking for new dealers to join the Royal Alloy network, promising market-leading margins, attractive dealer incentives and extensive support.
Royal Alloy 024 7531 214 info@lukasdistribution.co.uk
Tucked in and ready for business (Left to right): Mark Teuten, Royal Alloy franchise manager, on a GP125; Lukas Distribution MD Luke Gregory; Didi Dunlop, Lukas Distribution southern franchise manager, aboard a GT125; Steve Oliver, CEO of Royal Alloy; and James Hogben, Lukas Distribution northern franchise manager, on a TG300
Infinity buys Bike Stop
GOOD NEWS HAS BEEN SCARCE IN THE retail sector recently, but there’s a positive story emerging from Stevenage, where renowned clothing and accessories retailer Bike Stop has been acquired by Infinity Motorcycles. Infinity, which operates multiple retail stores across the UK and has a strong online presence, officially took over the respected Hertfordshire store at the beginning of December, when it paid tribute to the efforts of previous owners Martin and Monica Brown.
Founded in 1981, Bike Stop has built a solid reputation for supplying premium brands like Dainese and AGV. It has become a destination for local riders, known for its extensive stock, excellent customer service, and on-site cafe.
Alan Arnold, sales director at Infinity Motorcycles, said: “We’ve admired Bike Stop, Stevenage, from a distance for some time. We would like to thank Martin, Monica, and the entire Bike Stop Stevenage team for their outstanding work in creating such a communityoriented business. We look forward to
carrying on this legacy and adding our experience to it.”
Former Bike Stop owner Martin Brown remarked: “We take great pride in what we’ve achieved with Bike Stop, especially
in introducing new brands, hosting events, and establishing the café. We’re thrilled that Alan, and his team share our passion and are eager to continue this legacy. We couldn’t have chosen a better company for this task. A heartfelt thank you to all our friends and customers for their support throughout the years!”
The recent acquisition has increased Infinity’s total store count to sixteen locations throughout the UK Among these, three are located in London, specifically in Clapham, Holborn and Hammersmith.
In the North, Infinity operates two outlets in the historic towns of Huddersfield and York, and in the South now has eight stores situated in Christchurch, Camberley, Farnborough, Gloucester, Oxford, Southampton, Watford, plus the new location in Stevenage. Additionally, further afield, Infinity has outlets in Glasgow and Belfast, where it acquired the former Hein Gericke shops in 2016 and 2018 respectively.
From left: Bike Stop’s Martin and Monica Brown with Infinity’s Alan Arnold
NMC and NMDA join parliamentary reception
Timing is vital in politics and it was well out for the political wing of the bike industry last month. The National Motorcyclists Council (NMC) and the National Motorcycle Dealer Association (NMDA) held a joint breakfast reception at Westminster, less than a week after transport secretary Louise Haigh had been forced to resign after revelations of a fraud conviction a decade ago. Haigh’s replacement, Heidi Alexander, had only been in the role for a few days, so the roads and urban transport ministers were busy meeting their new boss almost at the same time as the bike industry’s political lobby gathered in the Thames Pavilion on Westminster’s riverside terrace.
The reception was hosted
by the Labour MP for Leeds North East, Fabian Hamilton, who opened the event with a positive speech about motorcycling, albeit one short on much in terms of concrete policy change. Hamilton is a keen biker and spoke passionately to BDN at length about his Honda CB1000R, which he rides around Yorkshire, and his electric Zero SR/F, which he uses when in London. He’s owned the Zero for three years and is a convert to the batterypowered machine for use in the congested South East. He certainly comes across as a solid ally for the bike world in the corridors of power.
The reception itself was a bit of a placeholder event, where the NMC and NMDA re-stated their positions on a number of areas. With
new bosses, Keir Starmer’s Labour government very much in mind, the NMC released Motorcycling and the Future of Transport , a new publication summarising the importance of powered two-wheelers for the broader economy, as well as outlining what the industry needs from politicians in terms of licencing, road safety, decarbonisation issues,
heritage motorcycling, access to green spaces, and celebrating motorcycle sport. Cleverly, the NMC also released a supplementary 18-page document, which contained much more indepth analysis and detail on motorcycling policy, giving interested parliamentarians a chance to find out more after digesting the less detailed summary document.
Fabian Hamilton, Labour MP for Leeds North East
Craig Carey-Clinch, NMC
After the event, Symon Cook, head of the NMDA, which represents motorcycle retailers across the UK, said: “NMDA’s parliamentary breakfast was a great opportunity to reflect on 2024 as well as on the opportunities and challenges that lie in the year ahead. Collaboration between manufacturers, policymakers and riders will be key to overcoming challenges and unlocking the industry’s full potential. By embracing innovation, sustainability, and inclusivity, we can ensure it not only survives but thrives.”
Craig Carey-Clinch, executive director of the NMC, said: “The briefing was an opportunity to bring the motorcycle sector together with parliamentarians to discuss what is needed for motorcycling from the government. Discussions were positive, and both the NMC and NMDA were able to set out a programme for positive action and launch their proposals to ministers. We look forward to 2025 and the work ahead.”
with the opportunity to redefine its role in the UK’s future transport mix. We must move beyond nostalgia and outdated rhetoric and focus on innovation, sustainability, and inclusivity
Discussions were positive, and both the NMC and NMDA were able to set out a programme for positive action
Craig Carey-Clinch, NMC
to ensure our sector evolves and remains relevant for this government.
Grinder resistant and difficult to tamper with The GRANIT™ Victory XPlus 68 brake disc lock:
Alfie Brierley, director of policy and public affairs at the Motor Cycle Industry Association (MCIA), added: “The motorcycling industry stands at a pivotal crossroads,
“Let’s not just protect what we have; let’s reimagine and shape a transport system that values the socio-economic and environmental benefits that our industry can provide, or else we risk being defined by the past rather than leading the way to the future.”
• Hard to target thanks to innovative design.
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Alfie Brierley, MCIA
• Optional bracket for safe transport on your motorcycle.
Symon Cook, NMDA
DIAMOND
Manufacturers Manufacturers
Dealer closures and concerns about the future of a major manufacturer brought an already problematic year to a worrying and sad ending. So what’s ahead? What’s going to happen in 2025? Alan Dowds spoke to some of the market’s key players to get their thoughts
It’s fair to say that there’s a lot going on in the world at the moment! Wars, coups, political downfalls and economic upheaval. At the same time the bike industry is having its own dramas, too. Yoyoing sales, the trend towards smaller, cheaper machinery, the continuing bloodbath in the electric motorcycle sector and the slow grind of ageing customer demographics all came together at the tail end of 2024 with a series of business collapses – the dramatic closure of several major retailers and the voluntary administration of the Pierer Group.
However, amongst this maelstrom of woe, there are experienced, professional, capable businesspeople and managers, all working to keep their companies running straight and true.
To get a measure of what’s likely to come I spoke to a wide selection of senior leaders from the manufacturer and importer side to find out what they think are the fundamental issues as we head out of a frankly rubbish 2024 and into a hopefully better 2025.
Starting off with 2024 though – how did it turn out in the end? Devron Boulton, general manager Triumph UK, outlined the ups and downs he saw in the market.
“It’s fair to say it’s been a mixed bag. Since January, the market has seen a noticeable tightening-up, particularly on large-capacity motorcycles.
I think we finally exited the post-Covid bubble, and in the latter part of 2023, OEMs finally got supply sorted and
started feeding the market. From a Triumph perspective, we were cautiously ambitious, but other brands were significantly more ambitious. Then, coming into 2024, an oversupplied market has combined with people continuing to feel the pinch, so the two things converged. That’s made the 500cc-plus marketplace quite competitive and a very challenging environment.”
Paul de
Lusignan, general manager at Suzuki, echoes much of that. “Talking about the market generally, it’s been quite a tough year overall for the majority of our customers. Biking is a hobby and a passion, and of course, sometimes it has to come second to other demands in the household. So that has depressed the market, and I think we’ve seen that across all the brands.”
“I have to say 2024 hasn’t been a fantastic year,” said Ducati UK MD Fabrizio Cazzoli.
From a Triumph perspective, we were cautiously ambitious, but other brands were significantly more ambitious
Devron Boulton
Triumph
“I believe there are factors related to the economic situation that have slowed down the market. I think the entire automotive industry is under pressure. And as a result, we have to navigate these choppy waters and get to a moment in which the situation will be more favourable.”
Away from the high-end of the market, some in the industry have been doing okay. Rob Woolley at Llexeter, which imports Lexmoto and Talaria, amongst other brands, reports a solid season.
“2024 was a good year for us: 30% up in all sales for the company, including parts as well. The latter end of the year was more difficult with the new emission standard coming into force for Euro 5+, which has meant that we have had to cut back on stock, which has caused issues for our network.”
BETTER THAN PREDICTED
In terms of pure numbers, registrations have been up and down over the year, with clear declines for mopeds and electric machinery. But overall, it looks like 2024’s total bike sales may be better than predicted earlier in the season. “At the moment [late November], the market is running at about 100,000 sales this year,” said Andy Mineyko, national motorcycle sales manager at Honda UK. “It will go higher than that with derogation bikes, but no one knows what that will look like till it happens. We had that in 2016 when the market boomed on paper, but they weren’t necessarily ‘real’ sales. If you look at sales for this year of just over 100,000 that’s pretty much as good as it’s been going back to 2010. In fact, in 2010/11, there were 76,000 bikes sold [excluding mopeds], so in numbers 2024 has been a good a year as any, though it doesn’t feel that way.”
Adam Kelley, Yamaha UK’s general manager, was also slightly more optimistic about 2024. “The registration figures are actually, all things considered, not too bad. We are slightly behind the market, but I have to say, this year has been particularly competitive.”
As ever, there’s been a mix of external and internal factors affecting the industry,
arguably more ‘external’ than usual, thanks to last year’s change of government. Neil Fletcher, Honda UK’s head of motorcycling, highlighted this when I spoke to him. “We had a general election which was announced at fairly short notice, and that definitely caused people to just pause to see what would happen. There was a lot of speculation
about the autumn statement.”
Some suppliers pinpointed the growth of electric bicycles – especially illegal ones – which is hitting moped and scooter sales. “A lot of the decrease has been in fleet sales: there’s a lot of unregulated powered two-wheelers out there,” said Andy Mineyko.
“One of the biggest impacts we saw this year was from
about how it was going to affect people’s potential income – and then, of course, we had the budget in October. So you’ve had a long period when people have maybe been holding back on discretionary spending.”
The timing of the October budget in particular pushed many potential sales back to the end of the season, and into 2025, as Adam Kelley points out. “There were a lot of people waiting for the budget to see who was going to be affected.”
“It felt like people were hanging on for the budget,” said Devron Boulton. “People felt change was coming and wanted to see where they stood. We were hoping for a post-election bounce, but I don’t think that lasted long, and it quickly became all
the owner/rider delivery guys,” said Adam Kelley. “A lot of them have been moving over to illegal e-bikes so they do not have to insure them, they don’t need a license, or wear a helmet, and a lot of them are either using pedelecs or even building their own with battery packs from eBay. Safety is the number one concern here, but it has affected some of that business for us. We know the police are clamping down, but it’s still challenging.”
Finally, one other external factor was the weather – we suffered long periods of rain throughout the summer. While it’s easy to blame, there’s little doubt that it put a dampener on sales, as well as workshop activity. “Weather also affects usage and, people ask: ‘Can I justify a new bike?’ Thankfully lots of people do, but if you can’t get out …”, added Kelley.
A strength of the industry is its ability to adapt,
of course, and every leader I spoke to outlined how they combated the tricky market, with widespread retail sales campaigns. “We always think about what we can do to electrify our customers and make them consider us,” said Paul de Lusignan. “That’s why we’ve been running strong sales campaigns alongside most of the other brands. That’s great news for customers, and the market needs to encourage customers to think about buying a new bike. It’s our job to drive customer interest and get those customers into the dealerships so that the dealerships can then close those deals.
“We’ve had very strong 0% finance deals running across our range, and that really worked. Customers and dealers have been turned on by that and we’ve seen some strong results: some sales were up 70%.”
Jonathan Martin, general manager at Suzuki, underlined the effects of old-fashioned good value deals at the NEC show. “During Motorcycle Live, we had customers on the stand placing orders on machines because they couldn’t believe the deals that were available. For example, on the V-Strom 1050 DE, we were running 0% finance, with free aluminium side cases worth £1300 and £1000 off. It really is a buyers’ market out
there at the moment, and Motorcycle Live helped us secure some useful winter sales for our dealers.”
One thing that did work well in 2024 was having the right bikes at the right time – and Triumph hit the proverbial bullseye with its new 400 singles – the Scrambler X and Speed 400. There were plenty of customers looking for smaller-capacity machinery at decent prices from an established brand, and Triumph caught them at just the right time, as Devron Boulton explained. “When we launched our 400 products, it was very well-timed in terms of being a solid value-formoney proposition from a quality brand at a time when customers were crying out for just that. Everybody is being a bit more considered in their spending, and right now some customers are looking to have fun for less outlay.
“We had high hopes for what we would achieve with the 400, but we’ve massively eclipsed them. When we first started looking at the volume potential we were benchmarking the established premium brands in that space, looking at what BMW and
We’ve seen
a market for small-capacity retros at a more affordable price point, and their volumes have been strong. We started planning for that and it’s a good job we did because we managed to catch that upswing, and we’ve had a phenomenal year on the 400s. It has helped our overall growth as a brand significantly: 2024 was the first year that we exceeded 10,000 new bike registrations in the UK, a significant milestone. And our rolling 12-month figures have been up even more, up to around 10,800 or 10,900.”
You can’t have a new model every year and refresh everything. But we’ve had a number of key updates
NEW MODELS
By the first half of 2025, Ducati will launch eight new models, including two new engines
Fabrizio Cazzoli
Ducati
new engines,” said Fabrizio Cazzoli, whose NEC show stand was packed with fresh Multistrada, Panigale and Streetfighter models. “For me this is the biggest product offensive Ducati has ever made, but we’re not going mad, not at all. We remain very loyal to our strategy, and we carry on in that direction.”
Adam Kelley Yamaha
Speaking to the major players about prospects this year, it was natural that they would point to what’s coming next, especially in terms of new products. The Euro 5+ emissions regs taking effect from 1 January meant a lot of updates, but there was plenty of new metal at the Milan and Birmingham shows last autumn, which bosses hope will tempt buyers in the new year.
“By the first half of 2025, Ducati will launch eight new models, including two
“Our new product has been well received,” said Adam Kelley. “You can’t have new models every year and refresh everything. But we’ve had a number of key updates on models like the NMAX.
The Tracer 9 has had some good updates, and I think it’s important to talk about the Y-AMT automatic gearbox because that’s the new tech coming out on MT-07, MT-09 and Tracer. It’s important that we get good volumes with that technology and that we give customers the opportunity to ride these bikes in the right environment. We’ve got lots planned this year in terms of events and experiences for
Honda do with their small capacity stuff.
Enfield create
customers to try it out.”
Honda has presented a veritable smorgasbord of new kit for 2025, from updated Hornet and Transalp 750 models to the extremely well-priced Hornet 1000, updated ADV350, and much more. One eye-catcher is the new GB350S retro single roadster – an Indian home market model which has been completely rejigged for the UK and European markets in order to grab some of that Royal Enfield, 350/Triumph 400 market.
“The key thing for us is the underlying product strength,” said Neil Fletcher. “Motorcycle Live showed that there are some fantastic products out there. New stuff is coming all the time, the investment is there on a global level. The electricpowered stuff is getting better and better; we’ve got some new EV products coming, so we will be ready for that part of the market when it gets a foothold. And we have some wonderful bikes ready to go. Take the GB350S – that’s being built in Japan. It’s a very successful bike in India, but that’s gone to [the Honda factory in] Kumamoto, to the R&D guys, and they’ve re-engineered it for the European market. The bike is now being built on the same production line as the Gold Wing.”
At the other end of the scale, Rob Woolley of Llexeter is also confident for 2025. “We have plans to turn things up a notch. We were desperate to get last year out of the way and for new models and stock to arrive so showrooms can start filling up again. We have some exciting new models for this year, and if bike sales continue to grow the same as they did in 2024, I believe this year will see the Lexmoto brand move to another level.
“Talaria has gone from strength to strength, with more than 2000 units sold this year. While the electric market
has dropped considerably, Talaria has come through it with ease and the bikes are getting better and better.”
“We’re at the start of a busy period for new model introductions,” said Triumph’s Devron Bolton. “Looking forward, we’re engaging with customers, getting them excited about the new bikes, and getting those pre-orders in place for the spring. We’ve also got a preview tour for the Tiger Sport 800 – the reaction has been very positive for that bike.”
We’re strengthening the range for our dealers. There will be more new model news shortly
the moment, but the current model range is only part of our story for the year ahead.”
DEALER CLOSURES
One major area of concern in the latter part of the year has been the series of dealer closures, and I was keen to hear the manufacturers’ take on the situation.
Yamaha’s Adam Kelley echoed everyone’s sentiments when he spoke about his sorrow at the loss of some key retailers. “It’s been very concerning, very sad, to see a number of dealers disappear and go into administration over the last few months and I think that just shows the pressure we are all under. It’s not good for anyone, it’s not good for the industry, and obviously, our thoughts go to everyone involved, the staff and also the customers.
“We know there’s a lot of pressure on dealers. We know profitability is an important thing – dealers need to be profitable, and we understand that. We have fewer dealers now, in fact less than half the number we had 10 years ago. We understand that we have to make sure dealers have good sales and good aftersales at the back end of the business, so they need to be profitable right the way through. We’re super conscious of that.
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Suzuki looked to have a quiet new bike launch season, with just the new DR-Z4S and SM shown in Milan and Birmingham, but Paul de Lusignan said that the new 400s attracted plenty of attention and pre-sales, and suggested there will be more news before the start of the new season. “The DR-Z4 S and SM attracted a lot of interest: they’re bikes in an area where we didn’t have a presence, so we’re strengthening the range for our dealers. There will be more new model news shortly, I can’t say more at
So yes, it’s not a great thing to see, and we’re talking closely to our dealer network of course. We have a dealer council, we had another meeting with them recently and the topics of sustainability and profitability were high up on the list.”
“There have been some big closures across the industry in the last six months or so,” said Paul de Lusignan. “That is always sad to see for all of us, because whether they are our dealer or not, they’re people we know. So that is definitely a sad thing, but I think given the economic situation at the moment, it’s not surprising that some people are
going to suffer.”
There have been one or two unscheduled closures; we can’t dress that up. But our network is still in good shape in terms of investment
Neil Fletcher
Devron Boulton at Triumph said: “You do what you can to look after customers, and I think we’ve done a pretty decent job of it, in terms of being available and supporting people and working with administrators and creditors to try and get positive outcomes wherever we can. Our commitment to our customers from a dealer network point of view is to reestablish businesses where
Electric View
IF THE PETROL-POWERED bike registrations ended up doing better than expected last year, there was no such turnaround for the batterypowered market. Sales were down, again, and even the smaller urban mobility part of the model mix performed poorly.
Seb Inglis-Jones, co-founder of British EV bike maker Maeving, recognises the overall picture but says his firm is in a slightly different situation. “We rent our factory off Global Moto, and I was speaking to their owner, and he was saying that in all of the years of being in the EV industry, 2024 was
the toughest, and we’ve definitely felt that. The EV market share was down – I think it was down by around 7% last year, and it was certainly down in 2023.”
But Inglis-Jones is sanguine about Maeving’s prospects.
In Europe there is already a strong customer base, but other territories need more help, so country by country we need to support the local infrastructure
“We grew 300% versus 2023, and our bikes are one of the best sellers, so we’ve been experiencing growth.
“I think it’s also easy to have an Anglocentric view on this. If you look at the electric numbers in China and India, 50% of all new powered twowheel sales are electric, so there’s two stories, there’s the
We’ve got a new range starting at £3700, and we’ve got more dealer enquiries than we’ve ever had
Dale Robinson
there is market potential, and we’ve definitely lost a couple where there is that potential. The absolute priority at the moment is getting those businesses established so we can continue to look after our customers. And I expect that will be successful in the next 6-12 months.”
In the end, though, there’s a limit to what importers and manufacturers are able to do, as Fabrizio Cazzoli points out. “I’m aware of the pressure on dealers and we are trying to do more to help, but we don’t have a magical solution; we don’t have a magic wand. We
Charles Chen
Asian story, and then there’s a UK/European story, and they’re completely different.”
Charles Chen, CEO of the UK’s top electric PTW brand Vmoto, spoke to BDN at the Milan show, where he was launching his firm’s Electric Mobility Solution – a new electric ecosystem aimed at business fleet users. “We are actually in version 4.0 of the electric market,” he said.” If 1.0 or 2.0 was having a vehicle for sale, we now need not only a product, not only a technology, but you also need a full solution. This includes the products, the technology, the charging infrastructure, the charging solution, and the right business model. We have
the experience and history in this segment to create a complete solution and make it sophisticated. The goal, or our new mission, is global electrification.
“This year, we are putting all of these projects on the ground with our bikes, our charging solutions, fast charging, and software management system, working with our partners in several countries simultaneously; in Europe there is already a strong customer base, but other territories need more help, so country by country we need to support the local infrastructure and business.”
Dale Robinson, UK country manager for Zero, was honest about the problems his firm has faced in 2024, but he’s also optimistic for 2025 after launching a new range of
Honda UK
can smooth the situation as much as possible and try to share the burden, but we can’t sort everything out.”
“There have been one or two unscheduled closures; we can’t dress that up,” said Neil Fletcher. “But our network is still in good shape in terms of investment.”
Is Honda planning to do more to help dealers?
“I think we are doing that already. We’re one of the few manufacturers who’ve got a dealer composite, so we work with dealers on their profitability. We have a good dialogue with dealers – do the
entry-level lightweight electric bikes, the X-Line. “Our retail numbers fell, in line with the market itself. And if you sell fewer bikes from a dealer point of view, you make less money. Last year, dealers had too much inventory on the floor, and our aim has been to reduce that. Although it happened at a slower rate than we wanted to, we have reduced it.
“I’m feeling fairly optimistic and positive for the new season. We’ve got a new range of bikes [the X-Line models] starting at £3700, and we’ve got more dealer enquiries than we’ve ever had because of that. One of our guys on the stand at Motorcycle Live, Curt Langan,
product lines and the business terms work for them? In the end, that’s what we are judged on. They are balancing risk and reward all the time.
“And similarly, I think we’ve all got a collective job to do as an industry – including the press if I might say so – to make sure that the customer is confident about their dealer. We just had our regular National Dealer Council meeting, and some consumers are a bit unnerved by dealers closing, so we’ve got to make sure that they get the full picture – that there are plans and strategies in place.”
referred to the X-Line as ‘electric Fizzies’ because if you look at £3700 today, compared to a Yamaha FS-1E back in 1976, it was two and a half months’ salary back then to buy a Fizzie and it’s about the same now. It’s a bike for the masses.
“We’ve got a dealer in Scotland, we’ve got a dealer in Yorkshire, we’ve got another dealer in London. We’ve got a dealer in Cornwall and another five or six enquiries which I could not have said a year ago, so that side of it is positive.”
We grew 300% versus last year, and our bikes are one of the best sellers
Seb Inglis-Jones
MCIA DEMANDS URGENT REVIEW OF LICENSING LAWS
THE MOTOR CYCLE Industry Association (MCIA) has renewed its efforts to secure a change in the licensing regime for bikes and other powered light vehicles. The association has launched a new document, produced with its transport consultant, the Zemo Partnership, which aims to show the benefits to wider society from progress in expanding light vehicle use, including bikes.
The document – Delivery Roadmap for Net Zero Transport –looks at the entire infrastructure needed for decarbonising road transport and outlines the key interventions it believes are required. There’s ‘emphatic support’ for the use of smaller and lighter vehicles to reduce emissions and congestion, which has a big role for electric machinery and existing clean internal combustion-powered two-wheelers.
There are two key takeaways from the document for bikes: Zemo calls into question the Department for Transport’s rejection of default bus lane access and its accompanying statement that the government has “no policy to encourage greater use of motorcycles.” Zemo says that a decisive policy shift is urgently needed if the government is committed to decarbonising transport, enhancing urban efficiency, and ensuring affordable and greener personal mobility in suburban and rural areas.
The second point covers licensing for light vehicle users, including bikes. The roadmap document urges the government to simplify PLV user licensing by 2026. The last government committed to a licensing review before the election, and the MCIA also calls on the new administration to retain this pledge and initiate the review process without delay.
In addition to bus lane use and licence simplification,
the roadmap outlines a suite of transformative policies to decarbonise and modernise transport. These include increasing awareness of PLV benefits among transport planners, stimulating the industrial supply chain, reforming outdated regulation, and implementing grants and incentives to encourage businesses and consumers to adopt PLVs.
MCIA CEO Tony Campbell said: “I welcome the publication of Zemo’s Delivery Roadmap for Net Zero Transport Its evidence-based findings underscore the importance of a multi-path approach to achieving net zero, emphasising the critical role of smaller, lighter vehicles.
“The roadmap recommends urgent policy measures to drive the uptake of mopeds, motorcycles, and other powered light vehicles. I hope this document serves as a wake-up call for the government to fully harness the L-Category sector’s potential to accelerate decarbonisation – the time for action is long overdue.
“I particularly support the document’s call for a user licensing review for the L-Category sector as a matter of urgency. Since launching our A Licence to Net Zero campaign last October, MCIA has been making the case that simplifying the licensing regime is a prerequisite to improving adoption of energy-efficient personal mobility and encouraging a shift away from congestioninducing cars and vans.”
Maeving
New look Motorcycle Live holds steady
Although attendance was about the same as in 2023, November’s ten-day Motorcycle Live industry showcase event at the NEC was judged a success by the majority of its 168 exhibitors. Given a tough year for big bike sales and the problems the retail network is now engulfed with, the event’s organisers must have been pleased and relieved when the doors closed and the final attendance figure of just under 90,000 was announced, around one thousand more through the doors than in 2023.
The show was revamped for 2024, embracing a “festival” theme. This included new food options inspired by street cuisine, an updated entertainment schedule, more live-action events, and a revamped live music program. A highlight
of the festivities was a festival-style concert on the final Saturday night.
New faces, such as TV’s Grace Webb, hosted the Expert Lab, which provided interesting conversations with engineers, product
WSBK champion Toprak Razgatlıoğlu, and Glenn Irwin, Peter Hickman and Kyle Ryde from the BSB and TT paddocks.
There was also a good reaction to the show from manufacturers. Adam
Attending Motorcycle Live to see bikes is a given. Our goal was to offer experiences visitors may not realise they wanted!
managers, adventurers and celebrities. The Machine Shop offered hands-on sessions covering essential motorcycle maintenance techniques and de-mystifying topics such as suspension setup and tyre technology. More than 1500 visitors tried out the BSB RiDE Sim Racing Challenge, and race fans met up with stars, including BMW’s new
Finlay McAllan, MCIA Events
Kelley, general manager at Yamaha Motor UK, told BDN: “The reaction to the show was really positive, both from customers and dealers. New models such as the R9 created interest, but also lots of updates across the range, even if only minor, meant that there seemed to be something for everyone across our line-up. Retail
sales were up over 2023 in our stores too, which we can take lots of positives from, other than the increased revenue generated. We had good interest in the test ride zone, too.”
Suzuki general manager Paul de Lusignan, said the show gave him and other senior staff an ideal opportunity to hear from customers about new products. “We spent a lot of time with the new DR-Z4S and SM, talking to customers. It was interesting to hear
from customers who were pleased to see them coming back – quite a few people said it was the bike of the show for them.”
Ducati UK MD Fabrizio Cazzoli, echoed the positivity surrounding the show: “We love sharing our passion for Ducati with the amazing audiences at Motorcycle Live, but this year it was even more special as the timing coincided with Ducati’s MotoGP success and exciting new ventures in MXGP, as well as the new motocross school and further expansion of our adventure experiences in the UK.”
the show’s appeal, providing attendees with a range of activities and encouraging them to stay longer, which he referred to as “dwell time”.
Kymco celebrates its 60th at MC Live
Top Taiwanese scooter and bike maker Kymco marked its 60th anniversary at Motorcycle Live, displaying its latest 2025 Euro 5+ machines for the first time in Britain. The stand included the all-new Filly 50, Dink 125 and Micare 125, as well as two new “highlight” products: the Sky Town 125 scooter and the KMN 125 geared motorcycle. Kymco also made the Sky Town available for free test rides in the Elite Test Ride Zone.
Kymco UK sales and marketing manager Neil Keeble, said: “We were delighted to return to Motorcycle Live again, and especially pleased to celebrate Kymco’s 60th anniversary too. For us, Motorcycle Live is the
perfect opportunity to engage with existing customers and those looking to buy their first bike or, indeed, their first Kymco. The Test Ride Zone is particularly important in enabling those who haven’t experienced Kymco before the opportunity to find out what we’re all about.”
For more info visit www. kymco.co.uk or contact Neil Keeble: nkeeble@kymcouk.co.uk
BikeTrac’s lifetime warranty launch
BDN spoke to Finlay McAllan, managing director of MCIA Events, shortly after the show concluded, and he expressed satisfaction with the event’s success. “It went really well. We had to rethink our approach and move away from traditional entertainment towards more relevant and informative content, such as how to change a tyre, understanding ABS, and adjusting suspension. We offered a variety of street food, all presented in a way that embraced the festival atmosphere with lighting and music.”
McAllan noted that the changes effectively extended
“Attending Motorcycle Live to see bikes is a given. Our goal was to offer experiences visitors may not realise they wanted, like quality food, live music, engaging entertainment, useful information to take away, and the opportunity to ride some bikes. And, of course, to see all the latest models from the top manufacturers.”
When asked if he was pleased with the new look show, he said: “Yes. We’re proud of what we achieved, but we can always improve. We’ll analyse everything we did and aim to make Motorcycle Live 2025 even better. We have debriefing meetings planned, and we need to compile results from our visitor research as well.”
Next year’s show will take place from 15-23 November, and visitors can already purchase tickets at: www.motorcyclelive.co.uk
BIKE TRACKING SYSTEM
firm BikeTrac, announced a new Lifetime Warranty programme last month which covers the unit hardware against faults. Introduced with immediate effect, the scheme gives all new subscribers the guarantee, which is effective for as long as they remain subscribed. Current owners can upgrade to the warranty for a small fee, too.
Bill Taylor, BikeTrac sales and marketing director, said: “We’re delighted to add even more peace of mind to the overall package for customers. We know our system and hardware are well-proven thanks to more than a decade’s experience, so adding the Lifetime Warranty feature was effectively a nobrainer. Existing customers, on our current three-year warranty, can upgrade
to the lifetime programme for a small additional cost, benefiting from the same peace of mind.”
BikeTrac has also rolled out a new website that gives customers a more straightforward option between its entry-level Lite unit and its full-function product, with the Lite starting at just £199, plus £5 per month subscription.
www.biketrac.co.uk
Kymco KMN 125
End of Ariel Ace two-wheel production
British car and bike maker Ariel has announced the end of production of its Ace – the Honda VFR1200powered bespoke super naked bike launched in 2014. The Somerset lowvolume manufacturer delivered the final production model to its owner at the end of 2024 – a Gulf-liveried machine dubbed The Last One. The final bike was signed by the whole of the Ariel production team but, as with all of the firm’s work, was built by one named technician: Joe Green.
The Ace was a one-off design, using a bespoke trellis aluminium main frame that echoed the firm’s Atom sports car. The engine was a 1237cc V-four from Honda’s VFR1200 sports tourer, with an optional DCT automatic transmission and a 175bhp output. It seems likely that the end of VFR1200 production at
Honda spelled an end to the Ace, but the firm says it’s already looking at another motorcycle project. Simon Saunders, Ariel director, said: “The history of Ariel is steeped in bicycles and motorcycles,
Norton in Plymouth
Solihull bike maker Norton Motorcycles has expanded its dealer network again, signing Macpherson Motorcycles in Plymouth as a full dealer, offering new and used sales, servicing, demo rides, official apparel and genuine parts and accessories.
Macpherson Motorcycles was set up in central Plymouth in 2018. Director Christopher Macpherson said: “It’s great to be an official representative of Norton Motorcycles, and we look forward to helping customers in this region of the UK. Our qualified team will be available to handle any enquiries, and technicians will be available for any servicing and repair needs.”
Alex Williams, sales business manager at Norton Motorcycles, said: “We are excited to further expand our sales partner network with Macpherson Motorcycles. Their understanding of motorcycle customers and ability to provide services from skilled technicians makes them the perfect choice to help our customers when purchasing a Norton.”
and we’re keen to ensure that this legacy continues to feed our future. We are already looking at the possibilities for a new, different Ariel motorcycle – so watch this space!”
Local businessman joins Orwell Motorcycles
IPSWICH-BASED DEALER
Orwell Motorcycles has a new director who, it says, will bring new commercial experience and enthusiasm to the operation. Local businessman Andrew Jay (above) is a close associate of Orwell owners Dave Willis and Rob Walters and has been advising the partners for several years.
Jay, who grew up in Otley, started riding bikes in muddy fields and is a keen motorcyclist. “Over the years, Orwell Motorcycles has done work on bikes I have owned,” he said. “I have bought motorcycles from
the business, so I have a long association with it.”
Dave Willis said: “Andrew and I will combine our business and people skills to develop the team here to ensure the service we offer to our customers and our internal team just gets better and better. Through this, we will define our business as being better than anything else out there!”
Alongside the new appointment of Jay as director, Rob Walters has resigned as director and sold his shares in the business – though he’ll continue to help out in the workshop and deliver bikes.
Indian signs Riders
US bike maker Indian Motorcycle has appointed a new dealer in the South West. Renowned Somerset firm Riders of Bridgwater joined the Indian network on 2 December with a full new and used bike sales service, together with demo machines, workshop and servicing facilities, alongside clothing, accessories and aftermarket parts supply.
Riders, which has been in the motorcycle business since 1976, will devote half of its floor space to the Indian range, with the other half dedicated to Ducati.
Indian has launched four new models for 2025, including the new all-new Indian Scout Sixty lineup, featuring a new 85hp 999cc SpeedPlus engine, the ultra-exclusive Roadmaster Elite, and the Indian Springfield Special Edition. All the new models will be on sale through Riders, and the firm is already organising a series of demo events.
“Becoming an Indian Motorcycle dealership is truly a breath of fresh air after 48 incredible
years in the business,” said Phil Jessop – MD at Riders of Bridgwater. “It marks an exciting time and a bold, positive new chapter in our rich history. We are honoured and privileged to partner with such an iconic and legendary brand, one that perfectly aligns with our passion for motorcycling and commitment to excellence. We are excited to welcome both new customers and long-time Riders supporters into this next era.”
Jim Clarke, regional director, central Europe for Indian Motorcycle, commented: “We are delighted to be starting this exciting partnership with Riders, a family-run business with an incredible legacy in the motorcycle industry.”
Bell relaunches UK operations
AMERICAN FIRM REVELYST, which owns the Bell helmet brand, has announced a new assault on the UK bike market. The firm says it’s set to expand its programme of dealerdirect and direct-to-consumer operations and will engage directly with both retailers and consumers. From this month, Revelyst will directly oversee the sale and distribution of Bell Powersports products within the UK – and says it’s committed to enhancing the customer experience, strengthening the brand’s presence and building deeper connections with retailers and consumers.
Revelyst also promises enhanced access to the full range of Bell products through select retail partnerships and
online platforms, exclusive product launches, and enhanced customer support. There will also be direct stock access to a 5000m2, UK-based logistic centre managed by a “world-leading” third-party logistics firm.
“Switching to a customer-centric model is a transformative step in our mission to bring Bell’s worldclass design and innovation closer to our UK audience,” said Jeff
SUZUKI’S GRAND OFFER AT NEC
SUZUKI MARKED THE ANNUAL Motorcycle Live show at the NEC with an extra £1000 off a range of models, including the GSX-S1000 GX and V-Strom 1050, as well as its 125 Address and Aventis scooters –cutting their price tag to just £1999.
KAWASAKI PICKS BRIDGESTONE
KAWASAKI HAS SELECTED THE LATEST Bridgestone road sports tyre for its new Ninja 1100 SX. The four-cylinder sport-touring machine will be supplied with the new S23 Battlax hypersport, which claims to combine great mileage and wet weather performance with enhanced grip and handling stability.
McGuane, Revelyst’s adventure sports president. “We are grateful for the collaboration with our partners over the years, and this evolution reflects our vision to deliver a more tailored and engaging experience for our customers.”
More info at uk.bellhelmets. com, or to become a dealer, visit: uk.bellhelmets.com/becomea-dealer.html.
30 YEARS OF SPEED TRIPLE
TRIUMPH HELD A PARTY FOR SPEED Triple owners and fans at its Hinkley factory museum last month to mark 30 years of the “nutty naked” machine. The all-day event saw special, custom and race Triples on show to celebrate 30 years since the original appeared in 1994.
BRISTOL CLASSIC SHOW ORGANISERS HAVE LISTED FIVE reasons to visit the Bristol Classic Motorcycle Show at the Bath & West Showground in February: the collection of classic British bikes; a massive autojumble; a Dore and Rees auction; plenty of race legends attending, including Alex George and Chas Mortimer; and finally, a slew of bike club stands, including the VMCC and VJMC. More info at: www.classicbikeshows.com.
Dainese launches helmet recycling scheme
Motorcycle helmets are, by design, tough objects made to resist impacts and damage. They’re also made from a mix of materials: various plastics, fibreglass, Kevlar/carbon fibre materials with epoxy resins, metal, polystyrene and fabric. All of this makes them impossible to recycle easily, meaning most old lids end up in landfill, or incinerated, neither of which is ideal to even the least green mind.
But now, Italian firm Dainese has announced a new scheme called Life Impacto that aims to create a new recycling process for helmets and to reformulate the materials and manufacturing processes to make recycling easier. The project is being rolled out by a consortium of five Italian companies: Dainese Group as coordinator; Innovando, a specialist
in reverse logistics; Re-sport, a spin-off from the University of Bologna which is focused on innovative technologies for recycling composite sports equipment;
The project’s ultimate goal is to introduce a homologated, environmentally sustainable helmet design
and Misitano & Stracuzzi, suppliers of bio-based solvents extracted from citrus fruit waste; plus the University of Bologna.
Life Impacto is based on an innovative
helmet processing plant which separates different plastic materials using biobased solvents from food industry waste. This means that key plastic materials can be recovered and reused: as an example, the firm says that from 5000 recycled helmets, it can recover 3700kg of ABS, 1056kg of EPS and more than 600kg of PC. This gives significant help to the environment, with a 60% reduction in CO2 emissions, a 60% reduction in electricity consumption, and a 50% reduction in water consumption, as well as a reduction in costs over the long term. The project’s ultimate goal is to introduce a homologated, environmentally sustainable helmet design, which will be optimised for even easier and cleaner recycling while providing the same, or better, safety performance.
MCIA welcomes new transport secretary
THE LABOUR GOVERNMENT OF SIR Keir Starmer lost its first cabinet member in November after transport secretary Louise Haigh was forced to step down. Haigh quit after revelations surfaced of a fraud conviction from a decade ago and has been replaced by Swindon South MP Heidi Alexander.
Alexander has experience in the transport field – she was a deputy mayor of London for transport from 2018-2021, and her appointment has been welcomed by the Motor Cycle Industry Association (MCIA).
MCIA CEO Tony Campbell said: “I congratulate the secretary of state for transport on her appointment and look forward to working closely with her over the coming months.
“I encourage her to view our sector as an opportunity. With decisive, swift action on long-neglected policy areas –such as licensing and vehicle regulation – supported by a pragmatic, open-minded approach to phase out – the government can achieve quick, impactful wins. For too long, successive governments have delayed progress on key issues for our industry. Now is the time to seize the opportunity, partner with industry, and leverage the powered light vehicle sector to deliver on your missions.
“By committing to supporting and updating the Action Plan, together we can secure a thriving, resilient future for iconic UK brands like Triumph, Royal Enfield, BSA, Norton, and CCM. With the
right policy landscape, the government can support new, innovative businesses like Maeving, driving economic growth, boosting productivity, and creating highskilled jobs.
“Simplifying user licensing to improve uptake of smaller, more energy efficient vehicles will accelerate the stagnating decarbonisation of road transport and slash congestion across the country. Modernising regulations will foster innovation, creating exciting new vehicle types that can transform urban and suburban mobility.
“The opportunities are endless, and the government has a willing partner in industry to make them a reality. All we need is a secretary of state ready to work with us.”
Robson joins Polaris as southern manager
Polaris UK has appointed Michael Robson as the brand’s new southern district sales manager. Robson will oversee 26 Polaris offroad dealers across the South, from Lincolnshire to Cornwall, supporting them by optimising stock levels, upholding brand standards, and driving growth across the dealer network.
“I’m thrilled to join the four-wheel off-roading world with Polaris and to help grow an exceptional dealer network,” said Robson. “Polaris’ products are unparalleled, and I'm eager to drive more customers into our showrooms with fresh, innovative ideas.”
Robson’s career began with 23 years in the British military, where he specialised in logistics and
later trained as a motorcycle technician. This experience laid the foundation for his post-military career in aftersales and customer support within the automotive sector. He’s also worked for KTM and Piaggio UK in a variety of operations and after-sales roles.
RETAIL AUTOMOTIVE SOFTWARE SPECIALIST IVENDI HAS formed a new partnership with finance house Close Brothers, aimed at making it easier for dealers to provide finance to customers, online and in person.
iVendi will deliver the finance tools through its ‘Connected Retailing’ platform, which includes an easily integrated online finance solution for dealer websites and a full showroom pointof-sale system. It claims to significantly enhance operational processes and buyer experience while meeting the demands of Consumer Duty regulations.
Darren Sinclair, CCO at iVendi, said: “For a few months, we’ve been talking to Close Brothers Motor Finance about ways we can work together. This pilot, which is one element of a broader series of joint initiatives we’re discussing, is strategically designed to help them increase vehicle and finance sales and further assist with Consumer Duty compliance among their dealer partners.
“The intention is that this will lead to further projects in the future, and we are already looking at ways that Close Brothers Motor Finance could make use of ground-breaking new products that we have in development.”
John Cassidy, sales managing director at Close Brothers, added: “The technology being provided by iVendi is very impressive. It should help to drive a host of benefits among our pilot dealer partners and do so in a highly compliant, consumer-centric way.
“We’re looking forward to seeing the results from the pilot and to examine new ways of working with iVendi in the future.”
More info: www.ivendi.com.
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Government rejects call for universal bus lane use
Governments sometimes make decisions supported by popular consensus – but not always. For example, opinion polls currently suggest a majority of the public would like to see Brexit reversed, and the return of capital punishment occasionally fares well in polls, too. Motorcycles using bus lanes is also popular, according to the government’s own consultation. Indeed, the National Motorcyclists Council (NMC) says that there was over 95% support in that consultation for bikes using bus lanes by default when it is safe to do so. But this much less contentious policy change has been shelved, for reasons that remain unclear. In November, the Department for Transport announced that it wouldn’t be changing its policy, meaning local authorities will make their own decisions, leading to a confusing patchwork of approval (or not) across the country.
The rationale is strange – the department says the government has “no policy to encourage greater use of motorcycles”, suggesting that it wants to deliberately make motorcycling harder (or at least, no easier), even when it comes to changes which could improve safety. Allowing powered twowheelers into bus lanes mostly improves rider safety, according to a broad range of research, and has no impact on the safety of other road users.
Craig Carey-Clinch, NMC executive
director, said: “It is extremely concerning that the government has ruled out a measure that could contribute notably to motorcycle safety. With ministers stating a commitment to a new Road Safety Strategy, this announcement gives rise to concern that the strategy
The DfT says the government has “no policy to encourage greater use of motorcycles”
will not consider the more creative and supportive actions that are needed to improve motorcycle safety. Continuing the current approach to motorcycle safety, with a lack of support for strategic motorcycling policies, will do nothing to help the decline in casualty
reduction rates that has been the picture since 2013. The NMC calls on ministers to think again and to fully engage the motorcycle sector as it develops its Road Safety Strategy.”
MAG WANTS RETHINK
THE MOTORCYCLE ACTION GROUP (MAG) has lambasted the government over its decision not to allow bikes in bus lanes by default, but to allow local councils to decide their own policies.
MAG spokesman Colin Brown said: “The outcome flies in the face of strong indications given by the previous government that it would favour default access. It creates a random patchwork of access across England. There is much in the detail of the outcome that needs to be reviewed, and MAG will be doing so before making a formal case for a rethink of the outcome.”
London bikers interests “swept into the bin”, says MAG
THE MOTORCYCLE ACTION Group (MAG) has hit out at Transport for London, after the TfL board signed off on new charges for the Silvertown and Blackwall Tunnels under the Thames. The decision means that bikes will pay the same charge as cars – £2.50 peak and £1.50 off-peak – to use the crossings, and MAG says it shows that the interests of London’s bikers have been swept away like rubbish.
At a TfL board meeting in December, the motorcycle charge recommendation was accepted, with objections and comments answered with one
statement: “A key objective of the user charges is to manage demand and thereby lock in the benefits of additional capacity and, importantly, manage the effects of traffic on the environment. Like all other vehicles, motorcycles will benefit from the scheme through journey time savings, more reliable journeys, and the increased resilience afforded by the scheme. Motorcycles also contribute to congestion, noise, air pollution, and wear and tear on road surfaces and, therefore, will be subject to user charges.”
MAG points out that responses to TfL’s prior
consultation resulted in 3318 responses opposing the propsed charges, 267 which supported them, 271 responses wanting higher charges, and 956 calling for lower charges. It argues that justifications for charging cars and motorcycles are different, and that TfL has not fully considered these differences.
MAG campaigns director Colin Brown said: “This decision casts serious doubt on the credibility of the consultation process. The specific responses to all the detailed arguments made by MAG and others on
the proposed motorcycle charges show a complete lack of engagement. They say motorcycles contribute to congestion – they don’t; they help relieve congestion. They say they contribute to air pollution and wear and tear, but no one with a basic grasp of reality can claim they produce the equivalent levels of air pollution or wear and tear as cars. It seems that the decision was signed and sealed before the consultation was launched, and the process is merely a fig leaf to cover the embarrassing truth of how true consultation isn’t happening.”
2025 TRADE DIRECTORY
•More than 650 trade suppliers listed
•Distributed in the April 2025 issue of British Dealer News
• Alphabetically listed – Easy reference to the best suppliers in the industry
• Published in print and online
•Published by your only monthly trade magazine
Company name and website listed for
What happens when a customer goes into administration
It can be difficult for business owners to know what to do when an important customer is in trouble
The media regularly reports on businesses in difficulty and ones that are about to go, or which have already gone, into administration. Indeed, most recently, BDN reported that the Completely Motoring Group was looking for a buyer after falling into administration in October last year. At the same time it was also reported that administrators had taken control of Pidcock Motorcycles. Both instances will have left some out of pocket. What is the purpose of administration? What does an administrator do? Most importantly, how should suppliers deal with an administrator? And what does administration mean for a company’s creditors?
A company that is under threat of insolvency can initiate the process of administration. This enables the company to be rescued or reorganised, or more likely its assets sold, under the protection of a statutory moratorium. Most of the time, administration results in a better outcome for a company’s creditors than it going insolvent or being wound up.
WHAT AN ADMINISTRATOR DOES
In overview, an administrator takes custody and control of all of the property to which the company is entitled, and sells or disposes of it, or otherwise takes any steps necessary to realise – turn into cash – these assets for its creditors.
This can include tangible
property, such as stock, and intangible assets, such as trademarks and book debts owned by the company.
Once these assets have been realised so far as possible, the administrator must distribute the cash proceeds in order of priority to the different categories of creditors of the company.
Notably, an administrator can look back at historic transactions and scrutinise whether or not payments made by the company were above board in light of the company’s current financial position. In doing so, the administrator may identify transactions at an undervalue – an unreasonably low value, preferential payments, extortionate credit transactions and transactions defrauding creditors, and can apply to the court for an order to have such transactions set aside.
In exercising its powers, the
administrator can be expected to take advantage of the statutory moratorium, which applies when a company goes into administration.
MORATORIUM
When a company is in administration, a full moratorium on insolvency proceedings and other legal processes applies. This is effectively a freeze on a company’s creditors taking action against the company and allows the administrator to get on with restoring the company to profitability – without having to deal continuously with the attempts of secured (and often, disgruntled) competing creditors trying to enforce their rights. The moratorium is sufficiently broad to give the company breathing space so that it has the best possible chance of being rescued or having its assets realised for
the benefit of its creditors as a whole.
The moratorium suspends a number of creditor rights, namely, the ability of creditors to commence insolvency proceedings against the company, the right of a secured creditor to enforce security over the company’s assets; the right of a creditor to repossess assets in the company’s possession including those subject to retention of title claims; and a landlord’s right to forfeit the lease of property in which the company is a tenant.
ADVICE FOR SUPPLIERS DEALING WITH AN ADMINISTRATOR
As noted earlier, the administrator takes custody and control of all of the company’s property. This property must be sold so as to realise as much value from the assets as possible. However, there are exceptions.
In essence, assets which are subject to a valid retention of title (ROT) claim, where there is a contract for the supply of goods to the company which stipulates that title to the goods does not pass from the supplier to the company until the supplier has been paid in full, or property held by the company on trust for a third party, will not constitute the company’s property for this purpose. They cannot be sold to realise cash to be distributed to the company’s creditors.
Most ROT clauses will include a right for the supplier to repossess the supplied goods in the event of non-payment. However, once a company is under the administration moratorium – including the interim moratorium period immediately following an administrator’s appointment – no action can be taken to recover supplied goods without the permission of the administrator or the court, thus severely limiting the options available to a supplier. Furthermore, in some circumstances, the court may even allow the administrator
to sell or otherwise dispose of assets that are subject to a retention of title clause if the court thinks it will support the rescue of the company as a going concern.
In determining what property the company owns or is entitled to, the administrator should make enquiries of the company’s directors to determine whether or not such assets are subject to a ROT clause, as well as looking at any underlying contractual documentation between the company and its suppliers.
It is important to understand that only where these enquiries do not reveal any ROT clauses, and the administrator has no reason to suspect that an ROT clause might exist, the administrator can assume that the goods are the company’s property and
also seek the views of the company’s directors as to whether the supplier has a valid claim to the supplied goods, including confirmation of when the supplier informed the company of the ROT clause, whether the directors accepted the clause and the date the supplied goods were received.
Similarly, the administrator may require the supplier to provide conclusive evidence of having provided the supplied goods to the company, for example, invoices, delivery notes and transport records.
ADMINISTRATOR’S DUTIES TO ALL CREDITORS
Lastly, it needs to be noted that the administrator owes duties to all of the company’s creditors, not to a single creditor. Furthermore,
The administrator may also seek the views of the company’s directors as to whether the supplier has a valid claim to the supplied goods
so can be disposed of as they see fit.
However, if having made the enquiries, the administrator becomes aware of a possible ROT claim, they should not sell the goods before determining whether or not the claim is valid. If the supplied goods are subject to a valid ROT claim and are sold, the administrator could be liable for damages to the supplier.
And where the administrator becomes aware of a ROT clause after the supplied goods have been sold, then, once totally satisfied that the ROT claim is valid, they should pass the net proceeds from the sale of the supplied goods to the supplier.
It is critical that a supplier that believes that they have a valid ROT claim over certain assets of the company establish their title to the supplied goods in order to gain possession of the goods.
The administrator may
regardless of who has appointed them, the administrator is an officer of the court and acts as an agent for the company. This means that they do not assume personal liability for any contracts they enter into while acting as administrators; most contracts they do enter will include wording which specifically excludes any personal liability of the administrators.
SUMMARY
Administration is rarely easy for companies involved in the process as well as their suppliers. But properly drafted ROT clauses which are correctly incorporated into contracts with customers will allow suppliers to pursue the recovery of the goods which they have delivered.
ROT clauses aside, suppliers caught up in an administration process need to take expert advice.
Employment law reform on its way
It cannot be said that the Labour government, only six months in office, isn’t trying to shake things up!
Political comment aside, it has given pay rises to public sector workers, raised taxes, and cut payments to pensioners. Not all its actions have been welcomed.
But beyond that, not unsurprisingly, given its political outlook on life, Labour is looking to reform the employment landscape too and recently introduced a 150-page Employment Rights Bill into parliament.
In its key points the bill proposes removing the two-year qualifying period for unfair dismissal while adding a statutory probation period, banning or restricting zero-hours contracts and “fire and rehire”, making flexible working a default right, strengthening parental rights, changing trade union law and collective rights, granting sick pay from day one, extending the time for tribunal claims and removing compensation caps.
However, some elements that were expected to be included did not make the cut. These include the “right to switch off” which would have prevented employers from contacting workers out of hours, making larger firms report their ethnicity and disability pay gap, introducing a single status of worker, and further reviewing parental and carer leave systems.
The response from stakeholders has been mixed. For the TUC, the legislation is described as “a potential gamechanger”. Paul Nowak, general secretary, said: “The government’s Employment Rights Bill offers a real moment of hope for working people,” and it “represents a positive and ambitious plan to make work pay. And it will benefit millions of workers, especially those trapped in lowpaid and insecure employment.”
He thinks that the package of
measures in the bill “will be genuinely transformative.”
Trade union Unison follows the same line. General secretary Christina McAnea said the bill “can’t come soon enough” and will bring “improved rights for individual workers, establishing new collective approaches in long-ignored sectors, and strip away a decade of hostile restrictions on trade union activity.” In particular, she thinks that the balance of power at work has been tipped firmly away from workers and that the bill will correct this.
And for the CIPD, a professional body
said they would be more likely to hire, and that 5% saw the reforms as irrelevant.
Taking a similar stance to the IoD, the CBI published, mid-November, the findings from a panel of experts – lawyers, policy advisers and HR professionals. Collectively, they found that reforms to zero-hour contracts could prove costly, that firms restructuring will see the process significantly more complex, that trade union reforms could weaken employee relations, and – critically –businesses will think more carefully about their workforce needs.
for the world of human resources, Peter Cheese, chief executive considers the bill “a landmark moment for British workers’ rights” and has “welcomed the ambition behind the new Employment Rights Bill to help improve job quality and raise employment standards in Britain.”
On the other side of the fence sits the Institute of Directors (IoD) which has published a poll on how businesses viewed the proposed legislation. Of the 715 businesses across the UK of varying sizes polled, it found that 57% would be less likely to hire.
To be fair, the poll did report that some 35.5% said the reforms would have no impact on their hiring intentions, 2%
The government’s Employment Rights Bill offers a real moment of hope for working peoplee
Paul Nowak, TUC
It’s interesting that the government’s own Regulatory Policy Committee reckons that, as noted by The Times, “the proposals lacked evidence to support the problem being addressed”. It warned that the estimated £5bn a year cost of the rules to business could be an underestimate that would be paid for through lower wage growth. So, where does the truth lie? Well, in answer to that, only time will tell. However, if we consider the history of the national minimum wage, it took years to come to fruition and, interestingly, to get full support from the labour/union movement. It’s true that it has increased costs for employers, but it’s hardly broken society in the 25 years of its existence.
Reaction
Your thoughts on the trade’s top topics
Four generations of Kerrs!
Congratulations are in order for the Kerr family at VE (UK) on the arrival of Hunter James Kerr, making the fourth generation of the family. Mum, Trinity, grandad Robert, proud great-grandparents, Janet and Norrie, will likely have him on a Vespa, or might Hunter prefer Lambrettas?
VE (UK) celebrates its 36th anniversary this year as one of the leading specialist wholesalers for scooter parts.
Willis and Maeving both right
Iread with great interest Roger Willis’s On the Money column in the November issue of BDN and think his comments are spot on.
My business is recycling large lead acid batteries from the forklift truck industry where a rebate is paid (currently £500-plus per tonne) and am now very much involved in recycling lithium-ion batteries where the client is asked to pay anything between £3 and £6 a kilo.
What I do not think the motor industry has woken up to yet is the cost of replacing lithium-ion batteries and how this affects residual values going forward. I would not be prepared to consider an electric car for a long time yet, and the same applies to a motorcycle. Maeving have the right idea of being able to swap batteries over which means, in a lot of cases, charging the bike can be done much more conveniently.
Jim Hammond, Traction Recycling, Rayleigh, Essex
Top people in BDN!
When BDN gets delivered each month, I try to read as much of it as I can. It’s such a well-written publication with never a hint of bad language or ungentlemanly talk.
A highlight for me was the recent interview with John’s of Romford which gave a reassuring insight into the wider world of motorcycling.
Back in April last year you published a splendid photo on your front cover of the wonderful Mr Cyril Chell. In 1995 I had the great privilege of meeting Mr Chell, and he was really helpful to me. He was a superb ambassador for the motorcycle industry and a top man.
The world of motorcycle contains some rough, tough characters, but their exploits rarely seem to seep into your magazine, which is always a joy to read. My very best wishes to you all.
J Walsh, North Finchley, London
Write to BDN with your points of view on the topics that make the trade tick: editorial@dealernews.co.uk BDN, 10 Daddon Court, Clovelly Road Ind
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01237 422660 | adsales@dealernews.co.uk
WE’RE HIRING
MOTORCYCLE SALES EXECUTIVE
We are currently looking for an experienced Motorcycle sales executive to work in our busy Honda showroom in Ruislip Manor, Northwest London.
MOTORCYCLE TECHNICIAN/MECHANIC
The successful candidate must have experience of modern motorcycle technology and be able to demonstrate an understanding of current diagnostic equipment. The role will be responsible for servicing and repairing predominantly Kawasaki and Suzuki motorcycles.
A competitive salary and benefits package will be awarded to the successful applicants which will reflect both qualifications and experience.
Please forward your CV with a covering letter to: Dealer Principle, HGB Motorcycles (Ruislip) Ltd, 69-71 Park Way, Ruislip Manor, HA4 8NS or email to brigid@hgbmotorcycles.co.uk
Write for BDN
Are you a passionate freelance journalist with a strong understanding of the motorcycle industry?
Would you like to contribute your insights and stories to the UK’s premier industry magazine, British Dealer News? If so, we want to hear from you!
We are seeking experienced journalists from all regions of the UK who can produce accurate news reports, complete with photographs, and write engaging features about distributors, dealers, and manufacturers in the motorcycle industry. BDN is expertly crafted for industry leaders and is committed to providing impartial and thorough reports on the latest developments and news in the sector.
We are looking to expand our team by inviting talented journalists to help us deliver insightful and credible content. Interested? Email: editorial@dealernews.co.uk
Andy Mayo, Head of content, BDN
Spot the kid, clue, he has a tartan tie on. From left to right Robert, Norrie, Janet, Hunter and Trinity Kerr
Ron Williams 1941-2024
Ron Williams, founder of road race-based Maxton Engineering and Maxton Suspension, has died aged 83.
Best known in recent decades for his suspension expertise, Williams was a talented engineer who loved problemsolving and had an unshakable research and development mindset in wanting to continually improve his products. The next project was always his focus. What had gone before was consigned to history. His enterprises included making road race frames, magnesium alloy wheels, and state-of-the-art suspension components. He was courted by leading manufacturers, including Honda and Yamaha, as well as by leading race teams.
Williams, a quiet, modest type, happiest in his workshop, first came to the notice of the motorcycle scene by taking a world standing-start quarter-mile 500cc speed record (10.78s) at Elvington, Yorkshire, in 1969 using a supercharged 500cc Triumph engine in his own frame.
Born in Eccles, Lancashire, he left school at 15 to take an apprenticeship at Metropolitan Vickers (now AEI), Trafford Park, Manchester, studying to become a draughtsman.
Aged 25 in 1966, he joined Chevron Cars, Bolton, Lancashire, as a design draughtsman. By this time, he had a consuming interest in motorcycles as well as race car technology.
When his mother died in 1970, he gave up full-time work to look after his father at the family home in Worsley, Manchester. It was in the garage where Maxton Engineering was born.
His first customer frame was for a 500 Matchless G50 road racer. Then,
he followed his first Maxton frame with frames for the Yamaha twins. In the 1970s Yamaha dominated 250 and 350cc class racing with its TD and TZ models, and Williams could see business and creative potential in this area because the standard Yamaha frames were fragile.
Yamaha dealer Dugdale Motors of Alvanley, Cheshire, sponsors of Isle of Man TT winner Charlie Williams, recognised his talent and offered him a workshop at its premises in 1978. Not happy with the workshop, Williams moved into a nearby chapel the same year.
It is estimated that Williams made up to 50 race frames, TT winner Chas Mortimer regarded as the leading exponent of Maxton Yamahas. Of those frames only one was for a road Yamaha, which Williams reluctantly agreed to make. Williams also made frames for Rotax race engines and F1 race bikes.
In 1980, he received a phone call from Gerald Davidson of Honda’s racing wing. This led to Williams becoming a Honda consultant until 1989. The association led to working on frame design for the NR500 grand prix bike and spending two months in Japan training Honda apprentices.
In the off-season work at Maxton Engineering continued. Williams could see an opening for 17in magnesium-alloy wheels, especially for Honda’s landmark 750 RC30 V4 (UK launch 1987). He made wheels from 1987 to 1989, when a Japanese company bought the wheel business.
In 1990, Norton’s race manager, Barry Symmons, asked Williams to design a frame for the Rotary Norton. Williams produced an ultra-lightweight design made by frame specialists Harris Performance. Using this frame, Steve Hislop won the 1992 Isle of Man Senior TT, a victory widely regarded as one of the highlights of post-war TT racing.
In 1993, Williams started to concentrate on suspension, initially sourcing components from Koni in Holland and reworking them for motorcycle road and track use, including making mono-shock units. This became highly successful as the superbike era boomed. GSX-R Suzuki owners were big customers. Williams had been one of the first to provide monoshock conversions for racing Yamahas in the 1970s.
By 1999, more than 90% of Maxton suspension components were made inhouse to ensure strict quality control.
Suspension set-up was and is also part of the Maxton service.
John McGuinness and Dean Harrison were among the top teams and riders seeking Maxton suspension expertise. Joey Dunlop, a 26-time TT winner, also used Maxton’s suspension.
Williams’ stepson, Richard Adams, joined Maxton in 1995, taking over general management in 2004 when Williams was 63. Maxton Suspension continued to expand, moving into new purpose-built premises in 2009 and acquiring more CNC equipment. With the move, Williams eased pace but continued to attend daily and work on development until suffering a stroke in 2020.
Ron Williams was a quiet, modest person who loved the Isle of Man TT, jazz music, walks, and designing and working on frame and suspension development.
“Ron was a very clever guy for whom we had a lot of respect,” says Lester Harris of Harris Performance. “There wasn’t much he didn’t know about motorcycle design.”
“Ron was such a gentleman,” says Maxton Yamaha owner Chris Bladon. “Very quiet, modest, a brilliant engineer. We held him in such esteem.”
“You couldn’t wish for a better friend,” says Steve Carthy owner of eight Maxton framed machines.
“Ron taught me how to rebuild race crankshafts, and he made the special tooling for me,” says Steve’s wife, Michelle, who rebuilds race cranks professionally (Michelle Carthy Cranks).
“He loved to cure problems and was always looking forward…. and he was my dad for 44 years,” says stepson Richard Adams, who is overseeing further expansion of Maxton Suspension with new CNC machinery extension due to be in action this month with a total staff of 12. Business is split 50/50 road/race, and Maxton continues to work with leading race teams.
Ron Williams leaves wife Mary and stepsons Richard and Matthew.
Ken Ford
1940-2024
Ken Ford, whom oldtime dealers will remember well for his good humour and exceptional product knowledge, died on 2 December; he was 84 years old.
Ken entered the bike trade from the aircraft industry, where he was a centre lathe turner. His engineering background and interest in bikes saw him join Paul Dunstall in the early 1960s when he helped develop Dunstall’s sports exhaust systems.
It is thought he was probably the first Brit to realise the potential of the Far East and was an early visitor to Taiwan (then known as Formosa) sourcing motorcycle parts.
Moving from the London area to the East Midlands, Ken joined Codnor Light Fabrication, helping to develop and manufacture the then industry-leading Micron range of exhaust systems. He later moved to Lincolnshirebased national parts and accessories wholesaler Lintek where he was to become a star salesman.
Larry Riches, founder and former owner of Lintek writes: “To say Ken was popular with his dealers would be a massive understatement. They
respected him for his bike knowledge and engineering background; he knew what dealers wanted. In one record year 35 years ago, his commission alone on sales was £70,000!”
Leaving Lintek after the business was sold, Ken worked as a rep for Nevis Marketing, Peter Gleave and George Lloyd. After retiring, he spent some of his time looking after a small collection of bikes, which he kept at the Bike Shop in Long Eaton, not far from his home in the Amber Valley district village of Codnor in Derbyshire.
Adds Riches: “Ken was a lovely man respected by all who met him, either in the trade or out of it. He was part of the team that built Lintek into a top wholesaler before it was sold.”
Ken leaves his wife, Janet, sons Andrew and James and five grandchildren.
Hoyland retires after 16 years at Central Wheel
RICHARD HOYLAND RETIRED ON 20 DECEMBER
concluding an impressive 16-year tenure as sales director at Central Wheel Components.
Under his leadership, the Birmingham-based company has established itself as a leader in wheel building and spoke manufacturing, serving customers nationally and internationally. He played a key role in expanding the company’s market reach and enhancing its reputation within the industry. Known for his dynamic approach and innovative strategies, he built strong relationships with clients and suppliers, contributing significantly to the company’s growth. He leaves a legacy of excellence and solid foundations for the future of the firm.
Throughout his tenure at Central Wheel, Hoyland was involved in all areas of the company, from hiring many of the current team members to overseeing production, sales, and marketing of the CWC, SM Pro, and Bulldog product ranges.
The period from 2010 to 2024 was a time of significant growth for the company. Interestingly, while the Covid-19 pandemic adversely affected many engineering firms in the Midlands, it helped Central Wheel Components. As businesses worldwide sent their workforces home, there was a sudden surge in demand for wheel builds, replacement spokes, and rims. Enjoying an enforced paid holiday many bikers headed to their garages and sheds and sent in their motorcycle wheels for restoration.
During Hoyland’s reign, the company invested in state-of-theart equipment, including a new fully automatic swaging machine, which allows large production runs of more than 100,000 spokes to be completed in half the time it previously took. A new hightech laser for etching rims and hubs was purchased and there are plans for a second one early this year. Additionally, a new spoke butt swager, four new spoke threading machines and two new automatic spoke cutters have been added to the production facility.
Last year, CWC completed a 10,000sq.ft factory extension, enabling the company to expand its inventory and add the Mitas tyre range to its portfolio. The investment positions the firm to meet growing demand as well as enhancing its reputation for quality and reliability.
While Hoyland’s retirement marks the end of an era, it also heralds a new chapter for the company’s management team, now led by Dom Harding supported by Harry Bradley and Jordan Williams. Building on Hoyland’s legacy they have ambitious plans to elevate the CWC and SM Pro brands in the UK and international markets.
Central Wheels’ owner, Warren Harding said: “Richard has been an exceptionally loyal servant over the past 16 years, and his retirement will leave a big gap. Having known him for nearly 40 years, he was already a good friend before joining CWC. He has helped me guide the business through both good and bad times and was always willing to take on those tasks that everyone else likes to leave. He is popular with the workforce, and he will be missed. I would personally like to thank Richard for his many years of service and wish him well in his retirement.”
Richard Hoyland (centre) with newly qualified apprentices Michael Conolly (left) and Tom Parsons (right)
Ken enjoyed his motorcycle collection!
Ken with wife Janet
With financial editor Roger Willis
The KTM cataclysm accelerates
Sometimes, bad news beats the pace at which BDN can deliver such troubling information through your letterbox. Our December issue carried a litany of excuses from Europe’s largest motorcycle manufacturer, KTM parent Pierer Mobility. It had not only failed to produce third-quarter financial results but had also cancelled all previous guidance issued for full-year 2024 prospects and stripped its executive boardroom of extraneous senior management.
The legion of excuses spanned everything from painful macro-economic trading conditions, the stagnating European economy, a collapse in US motorcycle consumer purchasing power and absence of imminent recovery. De-stocking excess dealer inventories across a range of markets had become urgently imperative. Commitments to support both dealers and suppliers had eaten into working capital and pushed up both net debt and the associated interest expense burden.
Pierer admitted to falling short of expectations in terms of revenue and earnings. The company had already sacked its chief financial officer Viktor Sigl, and four more executive directors were shown the door in October, leaving only supremo Stefan Pierer and recently recruited Gottfried Neumeister as joint chief executives sharing the otherwise empty boardroom.
A full review of circumstances was due to be carried out by the end of the year. But that promise became obsolete before December’s BDN reached your desk. During the final week of November, Stefan Pierer and his co-CEO Gottfried Neumeister declared that Pierer Mobility and, therefore, its wholly owned KTM subsidiary were effectively insolvent, and they had applied for judicial restructuring proceedings through a 90day administration period.
Pierer’s corporate implosion didn’t stop there, though. On 12 December, the company also announced that it
The strain tells on Brembo
ITALIAN BRAKE GIANT BREMBO HIT THE ground running this year and executive chairman Matteo Tiraboschi hasn’t been shy about some major achievements. In Q1, quarterly sales passed a billion-euro marker for the first time ever, and Tiraboschi repeated this performance in Q2. Then he subsequently engineered the largest acquisition in his company’s history, taking over global motorcycle and car suspension technology leader Öhlins in a £320m deal.
But, with nine months of 2024 financial data now evident, Tiraboschi realises the pressure is growing. “The results showed strong resilience, achieved thanks to the
group’s medium to long-term strategy, against an automotive industry that is facing severe difficulties at a global level," he admitted, acknowledging that gains have become progressively tighter or nonexistent.
However, he also noted that Brembo continues to invest, “despite a macroeconomic context that remains significantly complex”. And the big investment in Öhlins should strengthen Brembo’s positioning in the market – “to provide integrated intelligent solutions to our customers”. Brembo’s three-quarterly revenue of £2.439bn rose by only a marginal 0.3%
was aborting a nine-month relationship in control of MV Agusta because the premium Italian brand no longer fits into the Austrian parent’s “long-term strategy” if such a thing actually exists now.
This will apparently involve shipping about 2000 unsold MV Agusta models built in Austria to MV’s Varese plant in Italy for disposal. Management will presumably revert to erstwhile Russian Sardarov family ownership, leaving them to cope with inevitable financial cut-backs, distribution collapse and redundancies to stay afloat.
Roger Willis pursues all the details of Pierer’s fight to hold creditors at bay in this month’s On the Money column (see page 54), if he can keep up with this extraordinary speed of developments.
As we went to press, further news was breaking, which will be covered on the BDN website (www.britishdealernews. co.uk) and reported in the February issue of British Dealer News
year-on-year. Operating profit for the period was 3.5% down to £251.6m, with operating margin posting a slight decline from 10.7% to 10.3%. Pre-tax earnings fell by 11% to £229.9m. And finally net profit suffered a 14.7% slump to £164.3m. Net debt at the end of September had reached £530.6m, up from £378.9m at the beginning of the year.
During the nine months in question, sales of Brembo motorcycle brake applications accounted for 12.1% of turnover, falling by 1.7% to £293.6m.
€-£ currency translation at forex rates applicable on 28 November
Motorcycles steady as mopeds decline
Motorcycle registrations (classed as any PTW over 50cc) across Europe’s biggest markets rose marginally for the first nine months of 2024, taking them to the highest Q3 total over the last nine years. This is in stark contrast to moped registrations, which suffered a 14.5% decline compared to the 2023 total,
which was itself down by 25% from the previous year.
The electric-powered markets for both motorcycle and mopeds were significantly afflicted – motorcycles were down by 25.0% and mopeds by 21.8%.
ACEM secretary general Antonio Perlot said: “The European motorcycle market was stable in the first nine months of 2024.
MAJOR EUROPEAN MARKET MOTORCYCLE REGISTRATIONS
Long term trends highlight record highs in Italy and Spain – overall, motorcycles match the best nine-months performance in recent years whilst moped registrations have shrunk, as has the popularity of electric propulsion. The last quarter is usually slower in terms of volumes, but the autumn motorcycle shows should help to raise consumer interest.”
Global share prices
A snapshot of motorcycle and ATV industry share performance at the trading week closure on Friday 13 December. BDN financial editor Roger Willis reports
USA – RUNNING OUT OF STEAM?
Big Wall Street investment banks have begun to bet that the rally in US stocks will stall in the new year, as euphoria driven by prospects for AI profitability fades and disruptive “Trump trade” interventions become more frequent. Clues in the past week featured a general weakening of market indices.
Although the tech-heavy NASDAQ Composite, packed with AI promise, continued to creep forward by 0.3% to yet another record, other key yardsticks declined. Blue-chip S&P 500 stocks slipped by 0.6%, while the Dow Jones Industrial Average and S&P’s MidCap 400 respectively fell by 1.8% and 1.6%. On the MidCap frontline, every powersport listing apart from Harley-Davidson’s LiveWire electric spin-off was on the back foot.
EUROPE – A GIFT FROM ELON MUSK
The European Central Bank cut its benchmark deposit rate by 0.25% to 3% and kept the door open to further easing in the new year. That should have been a big uptick, but other forces were also in play. Frankfurt’s Xetra Dax and the FTSE MIB index in Milan stayed narrowly positive, respectively 0.1% and 0.4% up. But although Volkswagen workers from across Germany went out on strike in opposition to pay cuts and threatened plant closures, both VW and BMW had plenty to celebrate elsewhere, boosting their share prices.
VW announced it was offering a generous 14% pay rise over four years to the workforce at its US plant in Tennessee, and BMW was also apparently set to ramp up US production and wages at plants in Atlanta, Georgia, and in Mexico with a view to accelerating EV output to make the most of a collapse in desirability of best-selling Tesla EVs. Since Tesla supremo Elon Musk became a right-wing nutjob in bed with Donald Trump, American tree-kissers are now abandoning his wares in droves, leaving the market wide open to competition.
JAPAN – TARIFF WARFARE TEMPERED?
Japan’s Tokyo-Osaka Nikkei 225 market index maintained its positive outlook for a second week on the trot, rising by 1%, as mixed messages from the forthcoming Trump administration suggested a reduced impact from any possible tariff war. Shares in all four Japanese motorcycle brand leaders displayed plus-signs as a result.
INDIA – CORRUPT COLLAR FELT
Aggressive US legal action featuring serious bribery and fraud charges against Indian billionaire Gautam Adani, an acolyte of Indian PM Narendra Modi, had Mumbai investors running for cover. The S&P BSE Sensex 30 and the NSE Nifty 50 market indices struggled for positivity, respectively gaining only 0.5% and 0.4% over the week. Among the five Indian bike manufacturers, only Norton parent TVS Motor and BSA owner Mahindra stayed shiny side up, both by a slim 0.3%.
CHINA – CHINESE WHISPERS
The Beijing government’s latest wheeze is to deliberately allow the Chinese currency to weaken to encourage consumer spending. Investors weren’t amused. Shanghai’s SSE Composite fell by 0.4% and the CSI 300 dropped 1%. Nevertheless, six of the ten listed bike builders rose in value. CFMoto, which has a close relationship with the insolvent Pierer Mobility business in Austria, wasn’t among the winners.
Intermot bounces back
MANY MOTORCYCLE MEDIA sources had virtually written off Germany’s Intermot show as soon to be dead and buried by the dominant Italian EICMA challenger, but a decision by organising promoter Koelnmesse and “conceptual sponsor” IVM – the German motorcycle industry association – to move the event to annual frequency with later dates close to Christmas, has proved to be a resounding success.
Europe (euro)
Japan (yen)
India
China (yuan)
Hosted in Cologne over 5-8 December, Intermot’s debut winter edition marked the start of a new direction for the trade fair, fully exploiting the Koelnmesse grounds with a range of outdoor activities. And its exhibition halls attracted a satisfactorily large spread of leading manufacturers showcasing new models, with BMW Motorrad, Ducati, Honda, Kawasaki, Royal Enfield, Suzuki, Sym, Triumph, Yamaha and Zero Motorcycles among the more than 300 brands on display. Organisers reckoned they covered most of the German market, which the IVM claims is the biggest in Europe.
“With this new concept, we have set the right course for the future,” said IVM general executive manager Reiner Brendicke. Koelnmesse chief operating officer Oliver Frese was equally delighted with the results. “The response from visitors shows the enormous potential Intermot has,” he added. “We have one of the largest trade fair venues and a unique catchment area, which extends beyond Germany.”
Both Brendicke and Frese were also no doubt very pleased with approximately 90,000 visitors in attendance over four days, mirroring footfall at the UK’s nine-day NEC Motorcycle Live show in November.
Electric news
Can-Am rewired
The Can-Am brand used to be a stalwart of the off-road scene.
But it’s been missing in the twowheeled world since the late 1980s, with the Bombardier-owned brand focusing on leisure vehicles, side-by-side and ATVs instead. Now it’s back with a pair of urban mobility electric bikes, which it showed off at the NEC Motorcycle Live show last month. The Can-Am Pulse and Can-Am Origin share the same basic technology, with the Pulse designed for urban use and the Origin as more of a dual-purpose machine, suitable for on- and off-road use. The bikes have a claimed 90-100 mile range from an 8.9kW/h battery pack, 47bhp peak power output, and are
available in 15bhp learner legal form, too. Can-Am says the powertrain, charger, and battery all have a smart liquid cooling setup that optimises battery life and range while still providing fast charging. The bikes can charge from 20-80% in 50 minutes with a level two charger. The
Electric motion for Yamaha
THE BIG JAPANESE BRANDS ARE slowly, but surely, expanding their electricpowered two-wheeler options, and Yamaha has made a fresh investment in a European EV operation. The tuning fork firm has invested in French electric offroad and trials bike maker Electric Motion SAS, which develops and manufactures electric motorcycles for trials and offroad riding. According to Yamaha, the investment aims to raise the presence of both companies in the electric motorcycle market and to delve into the possibilities available for competition with electric motorcycles. As strategic partners, the two companies will “bring together their
respective expertise and capabilities to explore collaborative avenues in technology development.”
Founded in 2009, Electric Motion has sold its products under the EM brand name in approximately 40 countries worldwide – including Japan– and is steadily increasing its presence for competition trials and off-road bikes. Electric Motion’s products have competed in the Trial World Championship, the FIM E-Xplorer World Cup – the world’s premier electric off-road motorcycle racing series –and other events.
Meanwhile, Yamaha has been offering big discounts on its premium e-bike machinery,
price is still a hurdle, though, with the bikes starting from £14,899.
“We are excited our electric motorcycles are now here to enjoy their UK debut at Motorcycle Live in front of such an engaged and passionate audience”, said Mike Loach, BRP commercial manager for the UK and Ireland. “The Can-Am Pulse and Can-Am Origin bring forth our longstanding two-wheel heritage and address both experienced and new riders who are looking for an innovative and energised experience. In addition, the bikes are our first foray into the EV market, supporting us on our way to becoming a global electric motorcycle leader.”
More info: can-am.brp.com/gb/en.
with the Booster Easy now on sale for just over £1700. Yamaha has also been promoting the government’s Cycle to Work scheme, which gives up to a 39% discount using employee benefit salary sacrifice schemes to pay for a new bicycle.
Registrations data
The kindest thing that could be said about November’s battery-electric performance was that the overall registrations headcount of 267 represented a modest 11.7% improvement worth 28 units versus a year earlier. Set against the extremely weak previous month, it was actually 20 units down. At least a miniscule PTW market share improved from 3.8% to 3.9% year-on-year.
As usual, most volume was concentrated in the up-to-11kW basic mobility range. Within that, up-to4kW moped numbers fell by 54.5% to just 51 units. Nine samples of Sur-Ron’s Light Bee claimed best-seller status. 4kWplus to 11kW machines with approximate 125cc equivalence did better, rising by 77.4% to 204 units. The Yadea brand
plated 31 of its G5S models to take best-seller accolade.
After that, sales slumped into their traditional misery zone. The 11kW-plus to 35kW bracket contained precisely four 15kW BMW CE 04 maxiscooters, volume increasing by just one unit. As for over-35kW motorcycles, there were just two, reducing by 50% from four. Neither were identified by brand name. The “exempt” sector consisted of two Electric Motion EM Escape XR products. A further four machines of indeterminate origin completed November’s dreary picture.
For the year to date, batteryelectric registrations have declined by 7.2% to 3531 units. Market share of all new PTWs registered stands at 3.4%, down from 3.5%.
Segway launches E300SE scooter
ELECTRIC URBAN MOBILITY specialist Segway has released more information on its E300 SE scooter. The 125cc-class machine has a 10kW (14bhp) power output, with around 50 miles of range available from two removable 74V 27Ah lithium-ion batteries housed under the footboards. Charging time from flat is around 5.5 hours for the two batteries. There’s also the option to add a third battery while retaining some underseat storage space. RRP is £3999 after the government grant is applied, and includes a two-year manufacturer’s machine warranty, with three years on the two batteries fitted as standard.
For dealer open areas, contact Henry Maplethorpe on 07947 246724 or email info@segwaymotors.co.uk.
bike maker eROCKIT is looking for investment for its innovative hybrid bike, which took six years to develop and can reach speeds of up to 100 km/h (62 mph). While it claims to be the fastest road-legal e-bike, its legal status in the UK is uncertain. For more information, visit: www.erockit.de.
The Yadea G5S was November’s best seller
BMW’s concept F450 GS
BMW’S CONCEPT F450 GS, expected in production by 2026, boasts a new twincylinder engine producing 48hp, ideal for A2 license holders. Key features include ABS Pro, customisable riding modes, a 6.5in TFT display, and smartphone integration. With a weight of 175kg, it offers a strong displacement-to-power ratio, along with a fully adjustable fork and advanced suspension technology. The design maintains the GS aesthetic with sporty elements and a colour scheme inspired by the R1300 GS Trophy Edition.
With off-road correspondent Rick Kemp
Suzuki revamps its 400s
Suzuki’s original DR-Z 400s had a loyal following back in the day but were in need of an update, which is what they’ve just had.
The new DR-Z4S, Dual Sport, and DR-Z4SM Supermoto models launched at EICMA, feature a new twin-spar steel frame with a separate, bolton aluminium subframe and aluminium swingarm, which houses a new 398cc single-cylinder engine. The electronics package includes power modes, switchable ABS, and a sophisticated tractioncontrol system with several off-road modes.
The new Euro 5B compliant engine powers both models, offering linear power delivery with increased torque at lower RPMs, higher power output up to the rev limit and improved fuel efficiency. Compared to
the previous DR-Z400 engine, nearly every aspect has been enhanced. This includes lightweight titanium intake valves and hollow, sodiumfilled exhaust valves, along with updated cam profiles and pistons. Additionally, the new cylinder head features twin spark plugs, while new crankcases and a slipper clutch equipped with Suzuki’s Clutch Assist System have also been introduced.
New fuel injection and exhaust systems produce a broader spread of power across the rev range, with a linear throttle response and improved fuel economy. It all results in a peak power of 38PS at 8000rpm with maximum torque of 37Nm at 6500rpm while delivering a fuel consumption figure of more than 80mpg.
Electronic gizmos abound on both models as part of the Suzuki Intelligent Ride System. These include the Suzuki Drive Mode selector for adjustable torque/grip settings, switchable traction control modes, and a disengage-able ABS system, which differs between models. There’s also Suzuki’s easy-start system, which means the engine fires up with one press of the starter button, and there’s no need to pull the clutch lever when starting in neutral.
Suzuki also has a range of accessories available, which includes hand guards, a lower seat, and a rear carrier rack. Aftermarket accessories won’t be far behind. Pricing for the new DR-Z4S and DR-Z4SM will be confirmed shortly, with availability set for the summer.
Sherco selects Mitas as official tyre supplier
MITAS HAS BEEN CHOSEN TO PROVIDE its Terra Force-EF tyres as original equipment for Sherco’s enduro bikes, marking its first collaboration with the renowned French motorcycle manufacturer.
Mitas offers a comprehensive range of tyres for both competitive and recreational off-road riders and the Terra Force-EF tyres, along with the EF Pro and EF 2 SM tyre lines, are designed for versatile performance across various terrains, including rocky, muddy and fast-paced environments. The Terra Force-EF also comply with FIM enduro
racing standards, making them suitable for competition.
Gustavo Pinto Teixeira, head of Mitas Motorcycle Tyres, said: “We are honoured to be selected by Sherco for their racing models. This partnership highlights the quality of our products. The Mitas Terra Force-EF tyres are perfect for enhancing the riding experience in any off-road condition.”
The tyres are available in three different compounds and carcass constructions: Super for fast enduro, Super Light for technical enduro, and Super Soft for extreme enduro.
For more information visit: www.mitas-moto.com/en-gb/products/motorcycleoff-road-tyres/enduro-tyres
Race FX to distribute Troy Lee Designs
WITH AMBITIONS TO become an international brand, Troy Lee Designs views its new collaboration with Race FX as a significant step in expanding its footprint in key global markets. Race FX has established itself as a leading name in the motocross world, and is known for its commitment to distributing top-notch products and exceptional customer service. The new partnership will enable Race FX to offer a complete range of Troy Lee Designs helmets, gear and apparel.
“We are thrilled to partner with Race FX,” said Jon-Erik Burleson, Troy Lee Designs’ CEO. “Their dedication to the motocross community aligns perfectly with our brand values. Together, we look forward to bringing our products closer to fans and riders in the UK, a market that is essential to our growth and international ambitions.”
Paul Irwin, general manager of Race FX, added: “The partnership between Troy Lee Designs and Race FX is a perfect fit. We’re proud to collaborate with such an iconic brand. Troy Lee Designs is a premium brand that is a great addition to our proven rider gear portfolio. This partnership significantly strengthens our motocross apparel program, and we’re thrilled to have the brand on board.”
www.troyleedesigns.com
Special edition RFN Warrior
Urban Moto has introduced a new addition to its electric kids’ bike series: the RFN Warrior SX-E700 R Special Edition. Building on the success of the Warrior SX-E400 and SX-E500 models, this new bike features upgraded power, enhanced performance, and comes in new black and racing orange colour options.
Designed for young riders aged 4 to 8 years, with a seat height of 100-120cm, the SX-E700 R is available in two variants: one equipped with 14in tyres for off-road adventures and the other with 14in Super Moto tyres for indoor and outdoor circuit racing.
The motor has been upgraded to a 36V system with a peak power of 700W, which is 200W more than the SX-E500. It is powered by a 36V 7.5Ah lithium battery, providing a range of up to 15.5 miles or approximately one hour in Eco mode. The bike features three speed modes: Eco, Standard, and Sport, along with the added safety of a lanyard power-off tether switch.
The SX-E700 R Special Edition has an RRP of £1099. Urban Moto Distribution 01522 589461 distribution@urbanmoto.co.uk
Race FX general manager Paul Irwin and Troy Lee Designs CEO JonErik Burleson sealing the new UK distribution agreement
Contact 01237 422660
New legislation places a duty on employers to prevent sexual harassment in the workplace
Sexual harassment in the workplace has been an issue for some time, with countless cases being reported in the media – cases that have involved some high-profile individuals, most recently the late former owner of Harrods, Mohamed Al-Fayed.
But beyond the rich and famous, retailers have other problems with such abuse.
Back in December 2023, The Retail Bulletin wrote of a “Laddish culture which cost Lidl £50,000 after female employee wins sexual harassment case.” Worse, the British Retail Consortium noted, in August 2022, that “90% of shop workers have been harassed.”
And the problem isn’t unique to the UK. In the US, in August 2021, HRDive.com detailed a case where a motorcycle dealership sales manager won $500k in sex discrimination suit.
Of course, many employers will have a tried-andtested approach to dealing with workplace sexual harassment. This is likely to involve staff training, the maintenance of up-to-date policy documentation, and an approach to ensuring issues are dealt with robustly when they arise.
NEW DUTY, NEW LAW
However, since 26 October, employers have had a new duty and are required to take “reasonable steps” to prevent the sexual harassment of staff at work. Those that fail to take such steps risk a compensation uplift of
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Sexual harassment in the workplace
up to 25% in the event of a successful claim against them. Given that compensation awards for harassment claims are uncapped, there could be a high cost of failure to comply with the new law.
appropriate evidence can be presented to a tribunal in the event of a future claim.
The new mandatory duty is a much broader duty than any other obligation existing under current anti-
Employers and human resources professionals might be aware that under the law, there is a potential defence available to employers facing harassment claims
But determining what constitutes “reasonable steps” for an employer will depend on individual circumstances. Factors such as the employer’s size, the sector in which it operates, and the way it identifies and manages risks are all likely to be material. Employers should review their current sexual harassment strategy and make improvements where necessary. It is also sensible to make contemporaneous records to explain an employer’s strategy and approach over time. This ensures that
harassment law. The question of what will constitute “reasonable steps” for any individual employer merits careful consideration and will depend on factors such as the type of organisation and the harassment risks that are present at that workplace.
CHANGING DEFENCE
Employers and human resources professionals might be aware that under the law, there is a potential defence available to employers facing harassment claims, where the employer can show they took “all reasonable steps” to
prevent the employee from carrying out the harassment. Where the reasonable steps defence succeeds, the employer will escape liability, leaving the harasser potentially personally liable if they have been named as a respondent in the litigation.
The new mandatory duty is different from the existing reasonable steps defence. The reasonable steps defence applies in a much narrower context, i.e. in demonstrating that an employer took necessary action to prevent a particular employee from displaying a particular behaviour. In contrast, the mandatory duty will apply on an organisation-wide basis to all employees and is likely to call into question the organisation’s culture and approach more generally.
THIRD-PARTY HARASSMENT
Employers should note that although the explicit thirdparty harassment provisions were removed from the bill, the new mandatory duty may still encompass a requirement to manage the
Essen
with Adam Bernstein
risk of third-party harassment where relevant. Again, the requirements of any given organisation will depend on the particular risk of staff being exposed to thirdparty harassment at work. Employers should therefore consider the risk of third-party harassment as part of the general requirement to comply with their mandatory duty.
ENFORCEMENT
There are two ways the new mandatory duty will be enforced. Either the Employment Tribunal may apply a compensation uplift of up to 25% for breach of the mandatory duty in successful sexual harassment claims, or the Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC) will be able to take direct enforcement action against employers who breach the mandatory duty.
In terms of the compensation uplift, to pursue an employer for breach of the mandatory duty, an employee will need to bring a successful harassment claim under the Equality Act. If that claim succeeds, a tribunal may apply the compensation uplift at an appropriate percentage to reflect the extent to which the employer has breached the mandatory duty.
A tribunal may be likely to apply the compensation uplift precisely because, for the claim to succeed in the first place, the employer will either have failed to invoke the reasonable steps defence or will have been unsuccessful in doing so. If an employer has failed in the reasonable steps defence, it is likely to also fail to show that it has complied with the mandatory duty. In real terms, the practical impact of the mandatory duty is likely to be a compensation uplift of up to 25% in
could find themselves paying expensive awards made against them.
GARETH EDWARDS
Gareth Edwards is a partner in the employment team at
Unique Advantage
!CCM is plotting a fresh future with a new vision, new managing director and new bikes in the pipeline. It’s also looking to add to its dealer network. Rick Kemp reports.
Taking on the hot seat as managing director of CCM in May last year, Jason Broome is no newcomer to the bike or car trade, having spent many years working in Europe for some of the major manufactures. Head hunted by Pitalia Capital, a Bolton based equity investment company and owner of CCM since 2021, Broome has not only been charged with building CCM’s presence in the domestic market but with getting its bikes into multiple international markets
The Clews family, the initial ‘C’ in CCM (Clews Competition Machines), is no longer active in the company, and a degree of restructuring has taken place. As Broome explains, the sales and manufacturing processes have been tightened up, with each new machine now built to order. Output is currently about 300 per year, and delivery times for new motorcycles have been reduced to six to eight weeks
The bikes are built in Bolton and, like other high-end machines, major components such as wheels, brakes and suspension are sourced from specialist manufacturers such as Brembo, Öhlins and Marzocchi. All the final assembly, machining and quality control is carried out on-site at Bolton by a 20-plus skilled workforce. Naturally, the cost of highend, top spec components and skilled
labour all add up, and CCMs are not bargain-basement products. As with most things, you get what you pay for.
As Broome explains: “If you look at other brands, car or bike, you’ve got a basic model that comes with just the essential equipment, and then you’ve got models with the same frame and engine but with different ancillary products. In the car market this increase in specification can double prices.”
With only eight dealers covering the whole of the UK, CCM is now looking to add another two or three
CCM customers tend to be loyal, and they like the fact that their bikes are different. “You’ve got two types of customer: one who wants a bike that looks cool, and then you’ve got the other type, the collector, who wants something that not everyone else has got,” says Broome.
The ‘Made in Britain’ label still carries some weight with potential customers. Uniquely, if a bike has been bought through a dealer, it’s possible for the customer to see it being built in Bolton
to their own specifications. Surely, that must qualify as a USP that no other bike manufacturer offers!
DEALER NETWORK
With only eight dealers covering the whole of the UK (including the Bolton factory) CCM is looking to add another two or three dealers this year, with open area’s stretching from Surrey to Bristol, the South Coast and Kent. It already has partnerships with Thor Motorcycles in Bodmin, Cornwall; Oakmere Motor Group in Macclesfield, Cheshire; MHB Motorcycles in Kirkby Stephen, Cumbria; and Revolutions in Perth, Scotland; along with the Krazy Horse outlets in London, Bury St Edmonds and Chipping Norton.
Krazy Horse is CCM’s largest dealer, the partnership beginning back in August 2023. The two companies have a common interest in being a bit “alternative”. The Krazy Horse story began in 1996 when owner Paul Beamish built an authentic American chopper from a Harley Panhead. He went on to start selling parts for old Harleys, as well as building custom motorcycles. Krazy Horse was responsible for bringing the classic American ‘chop shop’ concept to the UK. Since then, the company has grown from its original shed to having
multiple showrooms. The partnership has resulted in wider exposure for the CCM brand, and also led to CCM, in conjunction with Hedon Helmets, creating a one-off Krazy Horse livery for the CCM Roadster.
Overall, there is a parc of about 3000 registered bikes in the UK and CCM has a pretty good idea of how that parc is divided across each region. There is a separate service dealer network, so owners don’t have to go back to the supplying dealer for routine servicing.
HISTORY
Clews Competition Machines (CCM) was founded in 1971 by Alan Clews. Back then, off-road competitors often used their machines as daily transport and Clews was no exception. When he became more serious about winning, he approached BSA, the most successful race team of the era. However, as others would discover, its works machines were not available to outsiders. So he set about building his own.
THE CCM RANGE
His first attempt was so impressive that he received numerous requests from fellow club racers for a bike like his. As luck would have it, BSA was then struggling financially, and had disbanded its race team to cut costs. Seizing the opportunity Clews drove down to BSA’s Small Heath, Birmingham factory returning with a number of frames, engines and associated parts. This enabled him to build a batch of bikes that were better than the works bikes. They were sold under the Clews Stroka name for the princely sum of £595.
The first bikes attracted a lot of attention and Clews soon realised that
he could sell more bikes than he could build. He took the decision to leave the family news agency business and set up on his own – he would never look back. In stark contrast to CCM’s ascent, BSA was in terminal decline and so as its doors closed, Clews snapped up around 40 tons of engines, machinery and parts. CCM went from strength to strength, attracting some very talented riders to its race team, championing the fourstroke motor against the global giants with their two-stroke engines.
He continued to play an active part in the company, working on a stroked version of the 600cc motor, until he passed away just shy of his 80th birthday. The CCM Heritage 71 is the motorcycle made to honour the legacy of Alan and is named after the year he founded CCM. Only 71 build slots have been allocated, with each bike individually numbered.
Alan’s son Austin continued the Clews connection with CCM, making bikes with a racing pedigree. He was a natural when it came to understanding how a bike should operate and feel, and in time, he became a director of CCM alongside his brother-in-law Gary Harthern. The pair worked to develop new products, with their big breakthrough being the GP450 adventure bike. The CCM GP450 was the first ever production bike to feature a bonded alloy frame, making it the lightest adventure bike on the market.
Austin retired in 2021 when CCM was purchased by Bolton-based businessman Anil Pitalia and his Pitalia Capital investment company. Pitalia says he is passionate about CCM, and his investment will allow the business to develop while ensuring that the Clews family philosophy and values continue into the next era of this long-standing British brand.
CCM
THE SIX MODELS IN CCM’S CURRENT range all use the same frame and engine, so you could say they are all variations on a theme. The frame and swingarm are CCM’s own unique designs, and the liquid-cooled, 55hp, 600cc motor comes courtesy of Husqvarna. Originally designed by BMW, the DOHC fourvalve head has twin exhaust ports which allows for creative exhaust pipe design on different models. The whole package works extremely well, and has done so for the last decade. In addition, if customers want to design their own unique variant, then CCM’s Skunkwerx division is on hand to help out with a bespoke build.
The present range comprises: Street Moto priced from £9995, Roadster and Tracker priced from £11,995, Maverick and Bobber priced from £12,595 and finally there’s the Heritage 71, a tribute to founder Alan Clews, at £22,995.
STREET MOTO
ROADSTER
TRACKER
MAVERICK
BOBBER
HERITAGE 71
CCM MD Jason Broome revealed the Project X dual sport adventure motorcycle at Motorcycle Live. Broome says the bike, which features a new swingarm and rear subframe design, along with a 17-litre fuel tank, is “95% ready” and should be launched in the summer
A batch of Clews Strokas was garage-built by Alan Clews from the remains of BSA’s competition department. Its popularity led to the creation of the first CCM factory in Bolton
MATTERS MARKETING
Expert advice to improve how you promote and sell productsyour servicesor
INSTAGRAM – FOR THE IMAGE-CONSCIOUS
If you are
time-rich,
or can afford to pay someone to run it, Instagram could be better for your business than Facebook
Instagram is Facebook’s cool younger sibling. Launched in 2010, it has a visual focus that appeals to younger audiences, who tend to be more active on social media.
Now owned by Meta (the same parent company as Facebook), Instagram has nearly 35 million monthly users in the UK alone. That may be 21 million less than Facebook, and the largest user group might be the same – people aged 25-34 – but they make up a larger proportion (30% compared to 25%).
There are several reasons why some businesses choose Instagram as their primary platform for social media:
1. Instagram’s emphasis on photos and videos is ideal for showcasing products and services, encouraging customers to buy into the brand’s lifestyle
2. Visually appealing content tends to attract more likes, comments, and shares, boosting your brand’s profile
3. With a high proportion of younger users, who tend to be more active on social media and more receptive to brand messaging, Instagram can be an effective channel to build a following quickly
4. Instagram’s influencer culture makes collaborating with people who could help you reach a wider audience and build brand credibility easier
However, before you rush off and create an Instagram profile for your company, there are some drawbacks to consider:
y You need to create a lot of content designed specifically for Instagram. Ideally, photos need to be cropped so they are square, and videos should be filmed in a portrait aspect and under 60 seconds long. There is little benefit to sharing studio shots from a brochure
y Adding to the workload, you will need to be active on Instagram regularly, commenting on your followers’ posts and sharing material from them. The algorithm (more on that in a moment) will reward such activity, but it’s time-consuming.
y Perhaps most serious of all, for a brand, you can’t include links on Instagram posts or in comments, which makes it difficult to drive traffic to your website
To maximise your chances of success, start by creating visually appealing content that resonates with your target audience
HIT ME WITH YOUR ALGORITHM STICK
Like Facebook, Instagram uses an algorithm to decide which content will be shared with other users. To maximise your chances of success, start by creating visually appealing content that resonates with your target audience. Use captions that prompt comments and questions and respond promptly. It’s important to post regularly to keep your audience engaged and remind the algorithm of your account. Finally, remember to use relevant hashtags to help your content reach a wider audience.
On top of all that, the algorithm is constantly evolving, so you’ll need to stay up to date on the latest trends and best practices.
Instagram is a great way to promote your brand to a broad audience, but you’ll need to invest a lot of your time to reap the benefits or pay someone else to do it for you.
NEXT MONTH
We’ll examine Twitter/X, an example of the potential dangers of investing time and money in building a social media following.
All the latest products, with Colin Williams
Airoh GP800 5
A HIGH-END FULL FACE HELMET FOR ROAD and track (there’s also an FIM-approved version for the racers), the GP800 tops Airoh’s range of sporting lids. Obviously it is ECE 22.06 approved, with a carbon shell in three different sizes for a svelte and wind-cheating outline. Aerodynamics have been the main thrust of development, with Airoh making extensive use of its in-house wind tunnel to reduce drag, lift and buffeting, and also to optimise flow through the helmet’s ventilation system. The wideaperture visor is tear-off ready and is equipped with a Pinlock 120 LTX Max Vision, and the additional dark smoke tinted visor included in the box can be easily changed thanks to toolfree installation. Inside, the Microsense liner has a magnetic fastening system making it easily removable, plus it is also hypoallergenic and breathable.
It comes in sizes XS-XL in plain colours for €539 or in various graphic options for €599 SRP.
The GP800 is compatible with Airoh’s new AWC 4 or AWC 2 comms systems, which have been designed with technical input from Interphone. Both feature Bluetooth connection for music and navigation duties, noise cancelling for the microphone, and a 500m range for communication – the difference between the two models is that the AWC 4 allows up to four users to join in the conversation, whereas the AWC 2 operates between just two participants. Due to arrive in February, prices of the new comms systems will be confirmed closer to the time.
Bike It; 02380 658700; tradesales@bikeit.co.uk
MAINTAIN WITH MINT
Givi Smart Lock
GIVI HAS RELEASED A NEW SMART SECURITY Lock system to help reduce theft of, and from, motorcycle luggage. There are four setting positions for the lock: Extract the cylinder – the lock cylinder can be removed, making it virtually impossible to pick the lock; Closed and locked – the lid is completely secured and the case is fixed to the rack; Open and locked – provides full access to the inside of the case, but keeps the case fixed to the rack; Open and removable –allows the case to be opened and removed from the rack.
There is also an additional internal locking lever to secure the case to the rack, adding a second layer of protection against theft.
The first cases to come with the new locks are the Outback Evo range, with further models to be added in due course.
Givi UK; 01327 706220; info@givi.co.uk
Rizoma clutch cover 3
ONE STEP FURTHER ON FROM THE CUTaway clutch covers that are popular with Ducati modifiers is Rizoma’s new transparent version. It’s made from a CNC machined billet aluminium frame with an anti-fog clear Lexan window, which allows the curious to see the high-spec mechanicals in action. The pressure ring is also machined from billet aluminium, with titanium screws. It’s available in black, red or silver for a sturdy £693 SRP.
THE AIRDRIY DEHUMIDIFIER IS A SIMPLE answer to the issue of condensation forming on a stored motorcycle. It is a big bag of absorbent granules that can suck up to 1kg of water out of the atmosphere. Just hang it under the bike’s cover and it will help to remove moisture, protect electronics, reduce corrosion and prevent mould. To re-activate the bag it can be dried by leaving it on a radiator. It is effective for up to six months, comes in easily-spotted green, and has an SRP of £11.50.
Nippy Normans; sales@nippynormans.com
Brembo Pro brakes
THE NEW BREMBO PRO AND PRO+ FRONT brake packages take, according to Brembo, retardation performance to new highs. The Pro front brake kit consists of a larger 338.5 x 6.2mm finned disc and a nickel plated Hypure caliper. The big disc provides a larger surface area, while the fins help with heat dissipation. The caliper is said to be better able to dissipate heat and is more rigid than its predecessors, which improves performance. It also manages to be a bit lighter.
The Pro+ package uses the same disc but swaps the caliper for a GP4 Sport Production model, which is a CNC machined billet aluminium monobloc type. It’s finned for even better cooling performance.
Both systems will be seen fitted as OEM on supersport machinery from various brands later this year. Brembo; www.bremboparts.com
Weise Adventure Plus
WEISE HAS MADE PLUS JACKETS FOR sturdily-built bikers for a number of years. They’re designed to be bigger only where needed – generally around the chest and stomach areas –with the torso and arm lengths kept the same as the regular-sized kit.
The new Core Adventure Plus is rated AA for abrasion resistance and comes with CE level 2 shoulder and elbow armour, plus a level 1 back protector. It features a waterproof, windproof and breathable liner, a removable thermal liner, and zippered vents for ventilation. The collar is fleece lined and trimmed in Neoprene for comfort and a weatherproof fit. It’s available in blue or black in plus sizes L-5XL for an SRP of £199.99, including a two-year warranty.
The Key Collection; 01179 719200; sales@thekeycollection.co.uk
Scottoiler xSystem 3.0+ 5
SCOTTOILER HAS TAKEN A STEP INTO THE digital age with the launch of its xSystem 3.0+ chain oiling system. The new 3.0+ uses a smartphone app to adjust flow rates from the comfort of an armchair or on the move (with the phone in a suitable cradle). Flow rates can be adjusted down to one second per drip accuracy if necessary, and there is a boost button in case an extra squirt or two is needed. The app can be linked to multiple xSystems, so owners with more than one motorcycle don’t have to have multiple apps installed. The xSystem itself comes in two sizes – Standard and the smaller Micro, which may be easier to find space for on some bikes –giving up to 1500 or 800 mile ranges respectively. Each reservoir has manual controls to adjust flow directly if preferred. It’s being road tested now, and is due to launch early this year, with pricing details to follow.
Designed to protect your bike from existing and new corrosion. This product is easy to apply, and once used it forms a thin film that creates a protective barrier against corrosion.
SHORT CUTS
NEW LS2 CATALOGUE
HELMET AND CLOTHING BRAND LS2 HAS launched a new catalogue detailing its extensive range for the 2025 season. Running to nearly 200 pages, it includes details on everything from carbon race lids to junior motocross helmets, laminated jackets to mesh gloves and casual boots. Details on the brand’s wide range of accessories, including goggles, intercoms and protectors, are also featured. Best of all, it’s free! Contact them now for a copy. LS2 Helmets UK; 01670 856342; ukservice2@ls2helmets.com
TEXA SOFTWARE UPDATE
DIAGNOSTICS SPECIALIST TEXA HAS issued its latest IDC5 Bike 36.2.6 software update for customers with a Texpack subscription. The new software provides compatibility with the BMW R1300 GS, CFMoto 450MT and a whole range of models from SWM, Keeway, Indian and MBP. It even allows you to plug in and read the codes from a 2024 Brough Superior Dagger, should one arrive unexpectedly in your workshop! Texa UK; 01282 606787; info.uk@texa.com
CARDO MESH BOOST
COMMS SPECIALIST CARDO HAS ISSUED AN update to its second-generation range of Packtalk devices. The Mesh Boost expands mesh group capabilities up to 31 riders, and also adds remote grouping (set a group up to include riders who aren’t present) and expands Private Chat to include any number of invited riders, rather than the previous limit of two. In addition there is a new Celluar Intercom function which will use the Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) to allow connectivity between an unlimited number of Cardo users, no matter the range, by making use of the mobile phone cellular data network. Mesh Boost will be available early this year as a free over-the-air update for all compatible devices. Pama & Co; 0161 494 4200; cardo@pama.co.uk
Garmin Tread 2 5
DESIGNED FOR THOSE WHO like to venture off the beaten track, Garmin’s updated Tread provides mapping and navigation for all sorts of off-road adventures. It’s got a glove-friendly 6in touchscreen display, built-in barometer, altimeter and compass, and is IP67 rated for dust and water resistance. It comes pre-loaded with maps for Europe, the Middle East and Africa for turn-by-turn navigation with topography, satellite imagery and weather updates when connected to a smartphone. For really hardcore riders, the unit can be paired with a satellite communications device to provide emergency tracking and messaging when outside of mobile phone coverage. An optional handlebar-mounted controller can be added to make it easier to change settings while on the move. SRP of the Tread 2 is £599.99, with the handlebar controller £129.99. Nevis; 01425 478936; info@nevis.uk.com
AGV K7
THE AGV K7 MADE ITS DEBUT AT THE MILAN SHOW, ITS styling catching the eye of both sporting and touring riders. It’s an ECE 22.06-rated full-face lid with a composite fibrereinforced shell which comes in three different sizes, resulting in a very compact profile and low weight. A lot of attention has been devoted to aerodynamic performance using both wind tunnel time and CFD (Computational Fluid Dynamics – basically a computer simulation) to reduce turbulence and improve stability. Ventilation hasn’t been forgotten, with chunky vents on the chin guard and crown, and AGV’s Air Diffusion Crown Pad technology which increases the flow of air across the scalp the further back in the helmet you go.
Inside is a soft padded liner designed for comfort and to reduce noise. It is removable and washable and has interchangeable cheek pads to adapt for a better fit. It’s ready to accept AGV’s Insyde comms system, with headphones, microphone and necessary wiring already integrated. A drop-down sun visor is included, as is a Pinlock 120 Max Vision on the main visor. It comes in plain black or white for an SRP of €449 or in a wide choice of graphic options for an SRP of €549. MotoDirect; 01773 864420; sales@moto-direct.com
Oxford Omega
WITH ITS RECENTLY INTRODUCED ONE AND two-piece leathers selling well, especially into sportsbike-mad North-Eastern European markets, it was almost inevitable that Oxford Products would make a textile jacket aping the styling of its cowhide offerings. So, for riders who want the racetrack aesthetic combined with the comfort and practicality of textiles there is the new Omega. It’s an AA-rated jacket with a high density polyester shell and a Dry2Dry waterproof membrane. CE level 2 shoulder and elbow impact protectors are fitted, and there is a pocket for an optional back protector. A removable thermal gilet and zippered chest vents make it year-round comfortable. It comes in men’s and ladies’ versions, in black or black/red/camo, for an SRP of £169.99. Oxford Products; 01993 862300; info@oxprod.com
Marbled wheels
CENTRAL WHEEL IS A company that knows the value of constant evolution, creating new fitments and finishes to ensure its products fit and perform, as well as look good. It’s latest eye-catching development is a marble powdercoat finish for its rims. It’s available in five colour options – teal, red, gold, blue and purple – and adds £100 to the cost of a wheelset.
Less eye-catching, but equally vital to business, is the development of tubeless rims for speedway bikes. These have a carbon-reinforced vulcanised polymer sealing strip covering the end of the spoke nipples to prevent air loss, allowing the sport’s regulation tubeless tyres to be fitted. Prices depend on fitment.
Central Wheel Components info@central-wheel.co.uk
Trail Tech comms
AF Rayspeed clutch 4
RAYSPEED HAS DESIGNED AN IMPROVED CASSETTE CLUTCH FOR Lambretta GP, Li, SX, GT and TV models from 125 to 200cc. The cassette design means the clutch can be fitted (or removed) without being disassembled. It claims to be able to handle greater torque without increasing the lever weighting, and also provides smoother engagement and longer life. On top of that, it is more than 500g lighter than the OEM clutch, thanks to a steel ring gear and aluminium basket. SRP is £385.
VE (UK); 01159 462991; sales@ve-uk.com
Merlin Axe Hydro
MERLIN’S AXE PROTECTIVE CASUAL SHIRT HAS BEEN given a practical twist with the addition of a Reissa waterproof membrane and fully taped seams. The membrane is sandwiched between a chunky 330gsm flannel outer and a lightweight thermal lining and has 10k/10k waterproofness and breathability ratings. Kevlar reinforcement is added in key areas for abrasion resistance, helping the garment to be CE AA certified, and Armanox protectors are added at the shoulders and elbows along with a pocket for an optional D3O back protector. other features of the versatile Axe Hydro are a longlength drop back to keep the kidneys warm, various internal and external pockets and a short zipper to connect to jeans. It comes in a choice of red/black or grey/black in sizes S-4XL for an SRP of £179.99.
Merlin; 01543 270299; info@merlinbikegear.com
NWT Cycletronics 4
NWT CYCLETRONICS IS A MANUFACTURER OF wiring and electrical solutions for custom and classic bikes. Its new control hubs and wiring kits can replace the loom on pretty much any bike, whether to replace old and worn wiring, or to create a “clean” look with the supplied custom switchgear. The kits replace everything, including fuse boxes and relays that control lighting and dash etc, with specific starter solenoids and regulator rectifiers also available.
The kits are designed to make rewiring a bike quicker, simpler and more reliable, with all wiring diagrams available online. Compatible parts such as LED lights, keyless ignition and lithium batteries are also available to take a project to the next level. Prices depend on the extent of the kit, but prices for control hubs start from £234.50 SRP. November Customs; 0758 102 9944; www.novembercustoms.com
THE TRAIL TECH ADVENTURE HEADSET FOLLOWS THE FAMILIAR format of other big-brand comms systems, providing audio streaming and rider communication on the go. The Mesh 3.0 technology used in Trail Tech’s system allows up to 32 riders to connect, or four riders can chat via Bluetooth. It has 40mm high-definition speakers with noise cancellation for clear conversations, plus hands-free control via a phone-based voice assistant such as Siri or Google Assistant. In a nod to its adventuring pretensions, the unit is IP67 dust and water resistant. It comes as a single unit for £257, or as a twin-unit package for £475 SRP. Performance Parts; 01327 706139; enquiries@performanceparts-ltd.com
Feridax’s cutting edge
They say that enthusiasm is the key to a successful business, and Feridax’s designer James Kent shows bucketfuls of it as he rapidly darts between garments in the Spada showroom, a whirling dervish of fashionbrand references, to reveal how the stitching has been crafted to create a particular style of seam, or the way that the material has been cut to avoid seams completely.
The results of this passion are clear to see in Spada’s new range, in which each
garment has been carefully considered for practicality, performance, style and cost. The aim is to provide high-quality garments at affordable price points, and targets three distinct style “tribes” – City, Urban and Explore – at three price point categories – Raw, Forge and Edge – to suit different rider profiles and provide dealers with a clear proposition for their customers.
The City range concentrates on youth style, taking inspiration from street sportswear and casual fashion. The Nodachi jacket is a prime example, taking cues from snowboarding gear and avant-garde Japanese fashion with its boxy profiles and discreet branding. The jacket is made from a coated nylon hardshell with a high-quality smooth finish, and has a tuck-away hood, designed to lie flat when not in use so as not to catch the wind. The trousers have a seam that twists around the calf, which positions the ankle zip at the rear for easier operation and also allows the trouser leg to be tucked into or slid over boots depending on preference.
Both jacket and pants have lots of waterproof pockets and are CE certified AA, plus they have been tested and approved for waterproofness to EN 343 standards (Spada is possibly the only motorcycle
New point-of-sale racking displays are part of the comprehensive new Spada marketing package
clothing brand that goes to the trouble of doing this) to reassure buyers that weather protection is up to scratch. Rider protection comes courtesy of Spada’s ownbrand TetraHex five-piece CE level 2 ventilated armour in the jacket, with a four piece set in the pants. SRPs are £249.99 for the jacket, £209.99 for the trousers.
close-baffled, 3M insulated thermal midlayer is available for those who need it, but most customers prefer to use a regular jacket or hoodie instead.
The Explore range, which targets keener bikers covering longer distances, features the Muramasa suit in the Edge category, and the Crossguard in the slightly cheaper Forge category. Both have traditional biker-style four-pocket designs, with the £299.99 Muramasa jacket having an EN343-rated waterproof nylon outer shell and the £259.99 Crossguard being made of waxed cotton/Cordura with a 10k waterproof membrane. Both are AA-rated and include five pieces of CE level 2 armour. Matching trousers are available, but neither (as with the whole Spada range) comes with a thermal liner. A separate,
Topping the stylish Urban category, which is aimed at lifestyle bikers who dig the counterculture vibe, is the £349.99 Turbine AAA-rated leather jacket. This has the sort of styling a Spitfire pilot would be familiar with, complete with a faux-sherpa collar trim that can be removed for more self-effacing bikers. It’s made with full-grain cowhide lined with a drill cotton and gaberdine liner to make it easier to slide arms down the sleeves. The front zip has two options for position – either exposing the perforated underlay to provide ventilation, or closing everything down for better insulation. The CE level 2 armour used has a smooth top surface so it doesn’t cause a pattern to show on
Designer James Kent illustrates the creative thinking used on the traditional four-pocket style Muramasa jacket. The top “pockets” are actually chest vents, while the pocket is hidden, with an easier-accessed side entry
The Crossguard
The Hanzo jacket
Nodachi jacket and pants
Removing the collar from the Turbine leather jacket gives a completely different style the leather as it patinates, another example of attention to detail. For those wanting a sportier style leather, the AArated Hanzo, which like the Turbine has a dual-position front zip, fulfills the caferacer niche for £319.99.
BOOTS
Sidi has long been synonymous with racing boots, both track and offroad, but it has now got even more serious with its array of trainer-style street boots, adding three new models to the range.
All three share the same tech specs – D3O impact protectors on the ankles, a Fortex sole reinforcement insert, and a Vibram rubber sole. The ARX comes in three versions: the canvas mesh Air; the waterproof suede microfibre WP, and the synthetic leather WP High, which also adds an inch or so of height. The lightweight
Urbex WP is a more traditional Apron toe style boot in a choice of burgundy or grey synthetic leather, but it still has all the biking credentials. The sneakerstyle Nucleus comes in suede WP, GTX (with a Gore-Tex membrane) or WP High versions in a range of colours. Prices start from £169.99.
For the off-roaders there is the new £549.99 Sidi Crossair X, a supportive but lightweight boot with highdensity impact protection covering the entire boot. Inside there is a fibreglass exoskeleton and a three-point anti-hyperflexion system to add to the protection levels.
All this is just the start, with much more promised to be coming from Spada in the future, as the team revives classic designs and develops into new sectors.
And Feridax’s other 40plus brands are constantly innovating and developing new products and ranges, too.
Feridax (1957); 01384 413841; info@feridax.com
Polini 135cc Evolution cylinder kit 5
MORE POWER TO PROPEL A VESPA PRIMAVERA IS EASILY attainable if you increase the size of the engine, which is exactly what this kit from Polini does. Capacity increases from 125 to 135cc thanks to a new 58mm bore cast iron cylinder and a matching piston which is gravity cast in alloy, with twin chromed iron rings. To extract the maximum number of horses from the refreshed motor Polini recommends fitting a PWK carb and race exhaust system. SRP is £310.
VE (UK); 01159 462991; sales@ve-uk.com
SIP rims
SIP HAS UPGRADED ITS RIM MK II wheel, creating the cunningly-titled Rim Mk III. The 13in wheels for Vespa GTS, GTV and MP3 models are an inch larger in diameter than the OEM wheels, improving stability as well as looks. The 3.0 x 13 ET20 wheels are a low-pressure aluminium cast made entirely in Germany, and are typeapproved for either front or rear fitment. They can be fitted with any tyre that will fit under the mudguards – up to a 140/60-13. They come in a choice of matt black, gloss black, gold, and black with polished spokes with prices starting at £135.35.
From right: The Urbex in grey and burgundy, the Nucleus WP High in black and grey, the Nucleus WP in black/white and black/ivy, the Nucleus GTX in ivy and Bering Sea, the ARX WP High in black and cinnamon, the ARX WP in black and the ARX Air in lemon/ivy/bronze and black/bronze
Dax luggage 56
Oxford chain care
HONDA’S DINKY DAX IS PERFECT FOR URBAN HIGH-JINKS AND weaving through traffic, but SW Motech’s new luggage kit makes it even more versatile. The £257.99 SRP Sysbag luggage system allows the fitment of a 17 to 23-litre waterproof bag on the left rear of the bike using an SLC luggage mount. The bag has a roll-top closure, zippered sections and a Molle system to allow extra accessories to be strapped on. Up front, a £54.99 SRP Pro Tank ring adaptor provides a quick-release mount for a £112.99 SRP expandable Micro tank bag. SW-Motech; 01256 704909; info@motohaus.com
LS2 Kid
BIKERS CARRYING A YOUNGER PASSENGER NEED TO MAKE sure that their junior traveller enjoys the same levels of protection as a full-sized pillion would. LS2’s new Kid helmet does just that, providing junior bikers with a ECE 22.06 rated lid with a kinetic polymer shell and a multi-density EPS liner. It even has emergency removable cheek pads. Venting is up to “proper” helmet standards too, with chin and forehead inlets and a large exhaust port at the rear. The anti-scratch treated visor is even ready to take a Pinlock 70 Max Vision anti-fog insert. Sizing-wise, the Kid is available in small (47-48cm) up to large (51-52cm), in a choice of solid black or white with hi-vis yellow accents for £59.99, or in three lurid graphics options for an extra £10.
EXTENDING ITS RANGE OF BASIC TOOLS FOR HOME mechanics, Oxford has added a couple of new items for chain care duties. The Chain Tool Pro is a breaker and rivet tool with hardened steel swappable pins allowing it to be used on chains from 420 to 630 in size, whether O-ring or X-ring. SRP is £74.99. The Drivetrain Pro detailing brush is a stiff brush for scrubbing away at the greasy bits on a bike. The bristles are made of nylon, and its got a rubberised non-slip handle. SRP is £8.99.
Oxford Products; 01993 862300; info@oxprod.com
ezCAN for Aprilia 5
THE BOFFINS AT HEX Innovate have been beavering away with their computers and soldering irons to adapt the ezCAN electronic accessory manager for the Aprilia Tuareg 660. The new ezCan Arno allows owners to add auxiliary lights, horns, brake lights and more without having to cut into the bike’s wiring harness. The Arno’s clever software allows any add-ons to be controlled from the standard switchgear and also allows actions to be programmed. SRP is £204. HEX Innovate; 01372 364100; www.hexezcan.com
Honda protection 6
HONDA MADE SEVERAL updates to the CBR650R sports bike and its CB650R naked sibling for 2024, including a revised fairing. So GBRacing has created a new engine cover set that fits the latest version of the bike, with extra clearance on the alternator cover to clear the new bodywork. A complete kit of alternator cover, clutch cover and pulse cover is £219.55 SRP, or each piece is available for £79.45, £90.89 and £60.77 respectively.
GBRacing; 020 8275 2630; enquiries@gbracing.eu
CTEK CT5 Powersports
PROBABLY THE SIMPLEST PIECE OF motorcycle maintenance possible is to use a battery charger for any period when a bike is not in regular use – whether it is a retail customer keeping their pride and joy snug in a garage or a dealership making sure showroom stock is fresh and ready to go during the quieter winter months. Without regular use, a battery will lose charge and could fairly rapidly become damaged through a build up of sulphate crystals, reducing capacity.
CTEK’s £69.99 SRP CT5 Powersports has got three smart charging and maintenance programs, and can be left connected to the battery without risk of damage, so it can be a “fit and forget” solution. The charging and maintenance programs cover standard lead-acid batteries, including AGM type, as well as the latest lightweight lithium batteries, plus there is a reconditioning program which will try to recover deeply-
discharged lead-acid batteries.
We tried the CT5 on a rarely-used Ducati Monster. It comes with crocodile clips for a temporary connection, or more permanent eyelet fixings with a fly lead for better accessibility. As the battery on the Monster is hidden under the fuel tank we fitted the fly lead to make future access easier, but we were lucky that it reached a convenient location, as it is not particularly long.
Connecting the charger resulted in the “Check” light illuminating while it performed tests to ensure the battery was fit for purpose, then the “Charge” light came on and it was time to leave it to do its thing. A few hours later and the “Care” light was shining brightly, telling us that the battery was ready to go and would be topped up over the coming months without having to lift a finger.
Trying the CT5 on a very old lead acid battery resulted in a few minutes of the CT5
running its check cycle before showing an error light indicating that the battery was sulphated beyond redemption, a diagnosis confirmed by another brand of charger that also refused to have anything to do with it. However, it had no issues recovering a battery deliberately run flat with a test lamp, bringing it back from just under 10V to a far healthier 12.6V overnight. Overall, it’s a simple to use charger, ideal for winterising a motorcycle, jetski or quad (it could even do a smaller car battery if you are prepared to wait, as the max output is 2.3A). With plenty of built-in safety (anti-reverse polarity, non-sparking, short circuit protection) and the added flexibility of working with the latest lithium battery technology, it should be a relatively easy sell to the majority of motorcyclists. Saxon Brands; 01488 689400; info@saxon-brands.com
TRADE CLASSIFIEDS
ACCESSORIES
ACCESSORIES
AUCTIONS
On the Money
It’s been a long time since a motorcycle brand with global muscle went belly up. BSA-Ariel managed this feat without much effort and, more recently, Yamaha got dangerously close to financial doom during the early 1990s. So is Pierer/KTM seeking similar shame too?
In rather bizarre joint statements addressing their company’s workforce of more 5000 employees via a YouTube broadcast, Pierer Mobility Group and KTM chief executive Stefan Pierer –along with his recently appointed coCEO Gottfried Neumeister – announced that the business was about to enter administration on 26 November. This will be part of “a comprehensive plan to navigate current financial challenges” and ensure “a robust future” for KTM, we were told.
Kicking off his confessional amateur dramatics, Stefan Pierer waxed lyrical: “Over the past three decades, we have grown to become Europe’s largest motorcycle manufacturer. We inspire millions of motorcycle riders around the world with our products. Now we are taking a pit stop for the future. The KTM brand is my life’s work, and I will fight for it.”
He then revealed a hopeful route away from ruin: “KTM, which has grown from 160 employees and a production volume of 6000 units in 1992 to a capacity of up to 1000 motorcycles per day, is now facing significant hurdles. To address these, KTM will initiate a legal restructuring proceeding with selfadministration. The application will be submitted on Friday 29 November, with the goal of concluding the process within 90 days.”
Pierer then went on to introduce his new managerial partner: “Since September 2024, Gottfried Neumeister has joined the executive board as co-CEO. He has brought impressive experience and a breath of fresh air and has made a significant contribution to addressing the current situation. I am convinced that together we will get the company back on track for success.”
Finally, Neumeister added his views: “The enthusiasm of our employees is our most important competitive advantage. Their passion is the reason why KTM is globally synonymous with peak performance. We build
our motorcycles reliably and robustly for every race, for every terrain. Now it’s about making the company robust – robust for the future – so that we can quickly focus again on what we do best, building the coolest motorcycles in the world.”
Pierer and Neumeister emphasised the importance of employees’ commitment and support during this period.
“Together, we have made KTM a success story, and together, we will carry KTM into the future,” they opined.
As previously reported by BDN, the background to these developments was news that Pierer Mobility Group’s revised full-year 2024 financial results could reveal an operating loss of considerably more than €100m. And this
Throughout his career, Stefan Pierer has assiduously avoided diluting personal control and he isn’t likely to change his tune any time soon
suggested the Group would inevitably be forced to seek a large injection of fresh capital. It was interesting to see how coy Pierer and Neumeister immediately became about quantifying exact figures.
In parallel to their double-act on YouTube, an obligatory ad hoc statement destined for shareholding eyes had been posted online by the group’s investor relations team. Some of it was tediously repetitive, although there were various tripwires for casual observers.
This explained: “KTM, a wholly owned subsidiary of Pierer Mobility, will apply for the initiation of judicial restructuring proceedings with selfadministration [Sanierungsverfahren unter Eigenverwaltung] on 29 November 2024. The financing requirements of KTM currently amount to a high three-digit million figure. The management now does not
expect to be able to secure necessary interim financing in time.”
In other words, that last reference suggests accessible coffers are unfortunately empty. And what constitutes a high three-digit million figure? Presumably they are talking euros, so it might mean as much as €900m – knocking on the door of £750m in proper money. There may be more. One unattributed source indicated liabilities of a reported €3bn.
The statement continued: “The executive board of KTM therefore decided today to file the application for the initiation of judicial restructuring proceedings with self-administration over the assets of KTM and its subsidiaries KTM Components and KTM F&E. The proceedings give the opportunity to continue to manage the assets under supervision and to reorganise the KTM Group independently. All other subsidiaries of KTM, in particular all sales companies, are not affected.”
“The aim of these proceedings is to agree a reorganisation plan with the creditors within 90 days.” And therein lies the first obstacle. Throughout his career, Stefan Pierer has assiduously avoided diluting personal control and isn’t likely to change his tune any time soon. In yet another ad hoc statement from minions, he immediately denied media reports of bail-out participation from Austrian multi-billionaire Mark Mateschitz, who owns 49% of the Red Bull energy drinks empire and is reputedly worth $39.6bn.
So with that door shut, what about his new best friend Gottfried Neumeister, who sprang from nowhere without any past involvement in the motorcycle business? Previous to joining Pierer, Neumeister had been chief operating officer of an Austrian-domiciled major airline and VIP catering enterprise called Do&Co. Besides feeding passengers on
Austrian Airlines and British Airways flights and providing Formula One race paddock and UEFA European Football Championship event hospitality, it also runs a chain of Nespresso coffee outlets throughout Austria.
To be fair, Stefan Pierer has clung onto control via utterly Byzantine means and may have accrued substantial private resources of which we know nothing. His Pierer Industrie holding company sits at the head with a 50.1% stake in Pierer Bajaj. Indian bike manufacturer Bajaj Auto has the remaining 49.9%. Pierer Bajaj owns 78.16% of Pierer Mobility. The rest are free-float shares quoted on various stock markets in Austria, Germany and Switzerland.
Pierer Mobility holds a 100% stake in KTM, which in turn has 100% ownership of the Husqvarna and GasGas brands and a controlling 50.1% stake in MV Agusta. There are also various stakes in component and R&D subsidiaries. The dark horse in these connections is another billionaire, Rajiv Bajaj, who has been remarkably silent as Pierer Mobility’s woes mounted.
At the same time, Pierer and Neumeister have been blithely assuring KTM customers that they have no need to fear any negative impacts. Their most recent prognostication in this direction said: “We guarantee that we will continue to deliver motorcycles, spare parts and accessories under the usual conditions. There will be no irregularities, neither in the flow of goods nor customer service. KTM is undergoing a restructuring phase to align the company with global demand. Until then, customers will not notice this pit stop for the future.” There
was no apology for KTM’s ill-timed and embarrassing “chocolate camshaft” warranty and recall fiasco.
Finally, returning to the company’s main ad hoc statement, besides the lack of lolly it couldn’t avoid the fact that other penalties loom, of course. An upbeat message began by saying: “Redimensioning should not only secure the continued existence of the KTM Group in the long term, but also create the basis for emerging stronger from the proceeding.” But then qualifications came thick and fast.
Pierer and Neumeister have been blithely assuring KTM customers that they have no need to fear any negative impacts
“While redimensioning production should lead to a gradual adjustment in excess stock at KTM and its dealers over the next two years, this will result in a reduction in operating performance totalling more than €1bn in 2025 and 2026. The restructuring process will also result in additional potential losses, due to one-off expenses such as writedowns covering capitalised development costs, and costs for staff reductions. Consequently, for the current
2024 financial year, the company expects a negative annual net result in the very high three-digit million range due to the aforementioned reasons.”
There are so many unexplained loose ends – creditor impatience and quite who is likely to underwrite as-yet unquantifiably huge losses among them – and so little breathing space. Within days of surveying events thus far, another piece of Stefan Pierer’s jigsaw fell off his board game. The Pierer Mobility 50.1% controlling stake in MV Agusta simply disintegrated in December, dumped back into the lap of previous Russian supremo Timur Sardarov as no longer pertinent to “long-term strategy” and immediately struggling for its own survival.
The Pierer Mobility restructuring and administration period is timetabled to terminate at the end of February. Before then, I wouldn’t be surprised if a mystery guest has ridden away with a bargain deal for whatever is left of the whole business. Did I mention Rajiv Bajaj’s apparent lack of engagement?
And should he need some valuation guidance, Pierer Mobility shares on Austria’s Wiener Börse were worth €62 at the beginning of December 2023. On 29 November 2024, as the company entered administration, they were trading for €9.50.
NEW YEAR, NEW BIKE?
AS THE RAIN BEATS DOWN and thoughts turn to the warmer months ahead, lots of bikers have been lusting after the various machines for sale on the MCN website.
In bikes for sale, Honda’s dominance is waning, with the firm’s bikes accounting for just 19% of traffic, down from a high
Used bike data
point of 25% earlier in the year. However, the top two most looked-at machines are still both Hondas: the CBR1000RR Fireblade and the NC750X. BMW then fills the top three with its R1250 GS Adventure. Over in reviews, the Royal Enfield Guerilla 450 tops the charts for naked bikes, with this
sector accounting for 24% of all traffic reading our reviews. Smaller-capacity adventure bike popularity is rising too, with CFMoto’s 450MT proving the most popular in the adventure sector, which accounted for 18% of all traffic. BMW’s excellent S1000 RR superbike remains the most popular sports bike review for our readers, with that style of bike accounting for 15% of sessions.
GARETH EVANS
Online editor, MCN
2. Honda NC750X
3. BMW R1250 GS Adventure
4. Honda RC45
5. Suzuki GSX1300R Hayabusa
6. BMW R1200 GS
7. Honda VFR800
8. Triumph Bonneville T100
9. Triumph Speed Triple 1050 RS 10. Yamaha R1
STRONG USED BIKE SALES
FOR THE FIRST TIME IN MORE than 12 months, we’ve observed a significant positive trend in used bike sales, which have increased by around 30% yearon-year for two consecutive months.
On average, bikes are taking just over 40 days to sell. Additionally, we are witnessing
USED BIKES SOLD
a notable improvement in market health. This November has shown double-digit growth, with market health increasing by an impressive 12.2% compared to November 2023.
In the top 20 Auto Trader charts, 70% of models are 125cc bikes. Lexmoto’s LXR125 leads the chart, taking an
average of only seven days to sell. Yamaha’s R125 and Kawasaki’s Z125 round out the top three podium places, with both models taking fewer than 10 days to leave showrooms. Notably, the Aprilia V4 Tuono made a rare appearance in the list. Despite failing to sell in big numbers when new, this bike is
AVERAGE DAYS TO SELL
performing well in the secondhand market, thanks to its rave reviews.
EDDIE BAHN Account director,
Auto Trader Bikes
USED BIKE MARKET HEALTH
Lexmoto’s sporty
UK registrations
Pre-registrations give November sales lift
A MUSCULAR BURST OF PREregistrations relating to discount deal offers – of which there are a lot about at the moment, given the market’s condition – certainly helped to perk up November’s action. And let us not forget the traditional “jingle bells” seasonal showroom inventory registrations to ensure year-end bonus targets are met. Either way, overall 9.7% growth to 6926 units was much better than nothing. Within that, the petrolhead ICE firmament boasted a 9.6% rise to 6659, while the batteryelectric presence staggered 11.7% upwards to a gestural 267.
Motorcycles actually rose by 21.4% to 4941. But over-50cc scooters were 6.5% down to 1674, and mopeds slumped by 31.8% to just 283. Trikes took a 33.3% dive to only 28.
125 scooters plated during the month –although 301 Honda CB125F motorcycles were in very close pursuit.
Bracketed by those two extremes were a trio of solid performers. The budget-priced 126-500cc range was 21.1% up to 1193, with Honda’s Forza 350 scooter usurping the more regular domination of 350cc Royal Enfield or 400cc Triumph bargain products.
The 501-750cc sector grew by 23.7% to 595, headed by 72 examples of the Honda
The Benelli Leoncino 125 made a rare foray into the best-selling models list. It was top in the modern classic category
brand’s entire monthly volume. BMW in third spot was 10.5% up. Royal Enfield climbed by 99%, and Suzuki added 70.1% to complete the top five, allegedly.
might like to mark their own homework when it comes to casting aspersions about who has been pre-registering and/or distress discounting
Among the broad sweep of ICE capacity classes, almost all were positive for the first time in several months. Sole laggard was the premium 1000cc-plus slot, falling by 6.7% to 819. Its “best seller” was the new BMW R1300 GS Adventure, although a tally of 89 bikes registered may have included dealer demonstrators.
The 0-125cc mobility sector, including mopeds, added the weakest gain of 5.2% to a mix of 3075 units. Yamaha seized fleet delivery honours thanks to 305 NMAX
NC750X. And finally, 751-1000cc steeds improved by 20.5% to 977. Suzuki’s keenly priced DL800 V-Strom twin topped that particular pile.
Arriving at the MCIA’s best-selling brands chart, readers might like to mark their own homework when it comes to casting aspersions about who has been preregistering and/or distress discounting.
Honda’s leadership was unchallenged and 6.6% up. First loser Yamaha, on the other hand, was 10.4% down, and those NMAX scooters comprised 37.3% of the
UK registrations of KTM Group brands
Triumph was a humble 4.1% higher, followed by insolvent KTM 18% in arrears. Then Lexmoto and Kawasaki respectively incurred modest losses of 4% and 5.3%. Finally, Keeway stacked on a heroic 45.7%.
Distributor MotoGB’s Keeway K-light 125 and Benelli Leoncino 125, respectively rode off with November’s Custom and Modern Classic best-selling accolades. Maybe… For the 11 months of 2024 to date, total registrations are 2.9% down to 105,193. Gas-guzzler headcount has fallen by 2.8% to 101,662 and battery-electric has declined by 7.2% to just 3531 units. For those of us too busy (or drunk) to notice, December effectively comprised only three working weeks.
KTM GROUP’S BUSINESS HAS BEEN HITTING the headlines for all the wrong reasons, as parent company Pierer Mobility’s financial woes became clearer with reports of thousands of unsold bikes sitting in storage across Europe.
In the UK, dealers have seen total sales of the group’s four major brands grow significantly over the past seven years. GasGas, which KTM took over in 2019, promptly quadrupled sales, but MV Agusta, in which KTM first invested in late 2022, struggled badly at first. However, there were some signs of improvement, as firstsix-month sales in 2024 have nearly matched 2023’s total.
The brand’s biggest problem seems to have been over-production, leading to heavy discounting and deals to speed stock through showrooms. Dealers will be hoping the future will be secured by the new investors now being sought by the group. Readers
Six month Jan-Jun 2024 new registration figures from the Department for Transport
Best selling models
Compared to 2023, when first-six-month new bike sales dropped by more than 4% against the previous year, 2024 has flatlined – just half a percentage point up at 58,633 registrations, which equates to a gain of just 283 units.
Among the big-name brands, the most outstanding performance came from Triumph, which added more than 1500 extra bikes to its total, taking its market share to a best-ever 11.6%, which meant it overtook Yamaha for second place. Despite a difficult market, other big brands (and their dealers) doing well were Kawasaki and Lexmoto, which both achieved significant gains in both sales and market share. Suzuki, Ducati and KTM all suffered double-digit percentage falls in sales, and KTM Group dealers had to deal with even more bad news
Top 10 brands by capacity
as both Husqvarna and GasGas sales took a hefty tumble.
At least CFMoto dealers had something to cheer. A magnificent six-fold increase in sales made it the most-improved brand in the top 50. At the opposite end of the scale, retro brand BSA was worst performer compared to 2023, losing 65.6%. Its dealers will be hoping for better in the near future when the scrambler-style B65 shown at Motorcycle Live joins the Gold Star in showrooms
In terms of best-selling models, the top 20 for the first half of the year was dominated by Honda and Triumph – Honda taking the top slot with its ubiquitous PCX125 scooter and filling seven further places, mostly with scooter and commuter fare, while Triumph secured five spots with larger capacity machinery.
Following a challenging year for the motorcycle market, it is positive to see a month of growth, with total November registrations up by 9.7%, ending five consecutive months of contraction. This will come as reassurance as we approach the festive period,” said Symon Cook, head of the National Motorcycle Dealers Association (NMDA).
“In November, total registrations increased by 9.7% to 6926 units. Total motorcycle sales grew significantly by 12.9%, while moped registrations decreased by 31.8% to 283 units. Year-to-date figures show a decrease of 2.9% for total registrations.
Glass’s motorcycle market overview
“The various categories of motorcycles exhibited a wide range of performances. Modern classics saw a sizeable increase of 51.9% for the month, and adventure machines also rose by 22.6%. Scooters, however, saw a decrease of 6.5%.
“In terms of the different engine sizes, the 126-500cc category witnessed growth of 21.1%, 501-750cc was up 23.7% and 751-1000cc rose by 20.5%. The largest over1000cc category contracted by 6.7%.
“Honda was once again the best-selling brand, with 1317 units sold, followed by Yamaha on 818 and BMW with 454. Keeway rounded out the top 10 with 220 units sold.
“Electric motorcycles saw an increase of 11.7% from 239 to 267 units in November, but year-to-date electric registrations are still lagging behind last year’s corresponding period by 7.2%.”
Cook concluded: “The figures offer an encouraging boost and hold the promise of building momentum as we move into 2025. But it is important to note that the numbers remain lower than those recorded during the same period last year. It is good to see an improvement in the electric market; however, more governmental support and clarity are needed to ensure consistency.
“In December the NMDA and the National Motorcyclists Council held a parliamentary breakfast. This was hosted by Fabian Hamilton MP and provided a great opportunity to reflect on 2024 and embrace the opportunities and challenges of 2025. Collaboration between manufacturers, policymakers and riders will be key in the year ahead.”
DATA PUBLISHED BY THE MOTOR Cycle Industry Association (MCIA) showed an increase in sales in November, with registrations 9.7% ahead of the same month of 2023. This is a positive result following several months of decline. However, some of this growth can likely be attributed to an increase in pre-registration activity ahead of the introduction of the new Euro 5+ standard that came into force in January.
In terms of style categories, modern classics increased by 51.9%, customs rose by 39.6%, while naked and adventure machinery saw an increase of 30.4% and 22.6% respectively. Nonetheless, total year-to-date registrations to the end of November were still 2.9% behind last year. Despite the improvement in registrations, feedback from dealers continues to suggest a tough market, with retail activity largely driven by discounts and manufacturer incentives. There are shades of the 2008-2011 period when the retail landscape was similarly challenging.
USED MOTORCYCLE MARKET
Sales activity for used machines in November was, at best, described by dealers as comparable to last year and, at worse, tough. Attractive deals on new machines continue to hinder demand for late-model used stock, and the increase in machines pre-registered to avoid the new Euro 5+ legislation could have a further detrimental impact.
The lower end of the market remains buoyant due to affordability. Meanwhile, in larger-capacity categories, the Yamaha MT-07, Triumph 675 and 765 models are sought after, and some dealers are having a good run with off-road and enduro machines.
Feedback from dealers continues to suggest a tough market, with retail activity largely driven by discounts and manufacturer incentives
Stock levels in the market remain high, and this could further increase due to the number of dealers closing down recently. However, most dealers say they are happy with their stock levels for the time of year.
OUTLOOK
The 2024 Motorcycle Live show took place at its usual venue, Birmingham’s NEC, from the 16-24 November, with an attendance of just under 90,000 visitors, which is slightly more than the previous year. Feedback suggests the first weekend, in particular, was well attended, and the general vibe was positive, with strong enquiry levels on new models and a thriving atmosphere with plenty to keep the crowds entertained.
The country had its first taste of winter in November, with widespread snow and ice, while December started on a mixed note with storm-force winds and plenty of wet weather. Taking account of the challenging market, Glass’s expects residual values to ease across most segments in the coming weeks, particularly for later-registration machines.
